Resentment growing in state over offshore sand mining

Fishers' unions threaten to launch stir State govt conveys disapproval, says it will affect livelihood of fisherfolk Geologists say project will boost Kerala economy

- MANOJ VISWANATHAN @Kochi

AMID allegations of opening up the fisheries sector to corporates, the Union government's move to allow offshore mining of construction sand has triggered resentment in Kerala. While various fishers' unions have threatened to launch a united agitation, the state government has conveyed its disapproval, stating that it will affect the livelihood of the fisherfolk.

Meanwhile, marine geologists have termed it a huge opportunity as Kerala will be earning a huge income through shipping, trade, and GST collection.

The Centre decided to conduct offshore mineral exploration based on a study by the Geological Survey of India which reported 745 million tonnes of sand deposits suitable for construction activities in Kerala's coastal sea. The Centre has decided to auction sand blocks for offshore mining in five sectors, which are Ponnani, Chavakkad, Alappuzha, Kollam North and Kollam South.