The Hindu : Tamil Nadu News : Sethu project will employ local fishermen: Baalu

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Monday, Nov 22, 2004

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

Sethu project will employ local fishermen: Baalu

By Our Staff Reporter

RAMANATHAPURAM, NOV. 21 . The Union Shipping Minister, T. R. Baalu, today announced that a multipurpose harbour would be constructed at Danushkodi and local fishermen employed for the Sethusamudram Ship Canal work. All political parties had made a demand that local fishermen be involved in the project and employment opportunities created in Ramanathapuram.

After attending a meeting on the canal project here today, Mr. Baalu said his Ministry would explore providing employment to even illiterate fishermen. A slipway would come up near Danushkodi to facilitate overhaul or repair to ships in transit.

At a public hearing held here, the Minister said priority would be given to the farming community.

Mr. Baalu offered to resign if it was proved that there was coral formation at the proposed canal site.

`False propaganda'

"Even after changing the alignment thrice with the aim of safeguarding the Gulf of Mannar biosphere reserve, some persons are making a false propaganda. When all parties, including the AIADMK, extended support to the dream project of the State, some elements were trying to tarnish the reputation of the project." If the State Government and fishermen associations offered an assistance package for any loss of livelihood at the time of dredging work, the Centre would consider it, Mr. Baalu said.

The MDMK presidium chairman, L. Ganesan; the CPI general secretary, Nallakannu; the CPI (M) leader, T. K. Rengarajan, and the Congress MP, N. S. V. Sithan, spoke at the public hearing.

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