Date:21/05/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/05/21/stories/2008052158890300.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

New auction platform proposed

Staff Reporter

CHENNAI: A new auction platform conforming to export oriented unit norms has been proposed by the Chennai Port Trust for the Fishing Harbour in Kasimedu.

Estimated cost

The platform, at an estimated cost of Rs. 25 lakh, will come up behind the proposed extension of the trawler wharf at the southern end.

The portion is currently being used by some catamarans and fibre boats, whose owners had agreed to shift to a location within the fisheries harbour.

Construction was delayed because some of the owners were not willing to shift, according to a press release.

Police, CISF help sought

The Chennai Port Trust issued notices and has sought the help of the police and the CISF to remove the catamarans and the fibre boats.

The owners have begun protesting the decision to move the catamarans and boats and have asked for one more week’s time to vacate.

The Chennai Port Fishing Harbour Management Committee will call for a meeting during next week under K. Suresh, Chairman of Chennai Port Trust, to finalise the modalities for shifting the catamarans, the release said.