Gurumoorthy Prompts Centre Action on Pulicat Dispute
In a letter addressed to the MP, the minister acknowledged that falling water levels and blockage of sea inlets during summer often force fishermen from both states to fish in the same areas, leading to frequent border disputes and clashes.
Nellore: The Centre has initiated measures to address the recurring interstate disputes between Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu fishermen in Pulicat Lake following representations made by Tirupati MP Dr Maddila Gurumoorthy in Parliament.
Responding to the issue raised under Rule 377 in the Lok Sabha, Union fisheries minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh said the government had taken up the restoration of the Rayadoruvu sea mouth at an estimated cost of Rs 133.11 crore. The project, which has received all necessary environmental and maritime clearances, is expected to improve seawater flow, rejuvenate the lake ecosystem, boost fish production and benefit nearly 20,000 fishing families.
In a letter addressed to the MP, the minister acknowledged that falling water levels and blockage of sea inlets during summer often force fishermen from both states to fish in the same areas, leading to frequent border disputes and clashes.
To prevent such incidents, the Centre has also put in place a joint monitoring mechanism involving officials from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. District-level authorities from both states have intensified coordinated patrolling and enforcement measures against boats entering waters of the neighbouring state illegally.
Welcoming the Centre’s response, MP Gurumoorthy said the steps would help protect the livelihoods and safety of thousands of fishermen dependent on Pulicat Lake. He assured that he would continue to pursue the issue with the Centre and state governments until a permanent solution is achieved.
