Fisherfolk Urge Cancellation of Marina Beach Initiative, Meeting with Chennai Corporation Commissioner Scheduled
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Chennai, Dec 25 (NationPress) Fishermen representatives from Nochikuppam in Chennai are planning to engage with the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) Commissioner, J. Kumaragurubaran, this Thursday to advocate for the cancellation of the Blue Flag project designation for Marina Beach.
During this meeting, they are also likely to propose the creation of roadside shelters for fish vendors originating from Nochikuppam, whose business has faced a substantial downturn following their relocation to a new market.
The fishermen are additionally calling on the authorities to officially recognize the area stretching from Nochikuppam to Srinivasapuram as a Fisheries Conservation Zone.
They contend that the Chennai Corporation's initiative to transform Marina Beach into a tourist hotspot will negatively impact their sources of income. “If the Blue Flag certification and associated development proceed along the Loop Road, over 200 families in Nochikuppam will suffer,” stated S. Ethiraj, a local fisherman. “The decision on whether to escalate our protests will be based on the outcome of our discussion with the Commissioner,” he added.
Fishermen and vendors have issued warnings that if the Corporation does not retract the proposed initiatives, they will initiate a road blockade until the state government addresses their grievances.
The fisherfolk residing along the Loop Road adjacent to Marina Beach have been distressed for several months, particularly after their relocation to the new fish market.
Their concerns have heightened in light of the Corporation’s plans to redevelop Marina Beach, which includes pursuing Blue Flag certification.
The Blue Flag certification, granted by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), is a voluntary acknowledgment given to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators that adhere to rigorous environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria.
While the initiative aims to foster sustainable development in marine and freshwater environments, it frequently jeopardizes local livelihoods, as communities are often sidelined in the decision-making processes.
On Tuesday, fishermen from Nochikuppam protested against the GCC’s plans for Marina Beach.
They claimed that the authorities forcibly moved them to a poorly constructed market, disrupting their sales activities.
The fisherfolk are advocating for small shops in the vicinity to restore their livelihoods and oppose any redevelopment initiatives that may further marginalize their community.
