Date:07/10/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/10/07/stories/2008100759140300.htm

Kerala - Kochi

Fort Kochi beach to be beautified

John L. Paul

Photo: H. Vibhu

MAIN DRAW: The Chinese fishing nets at the beach. —

KOCHI: Kerala Tourism might chip in with assistance to help the operators of Chinese fishing nets in Fort Kochi beach maintain the nets in good condition.

The fishermen operating the nets fell into a crisis after the cost of teak logs used to support the nets skyrocketed. Though replacing the logs with iron pipes would be an option, it would take away the rustic charm associated with the nets. The fishermen have for long been complaining that country boats operating in the vicinity of the Chinese nets snatch away a good share of fish that swim around the beach. Faced with such problems, many operators dismantled the loss-making structures, while others were forced to sell off their nets.

With the sea taking over a good share of the once scenic beach, these nets and the fishermen manning them leave an indelible mark on the mind of visitors. A senior tourism official said that a report has been given to the State Government to help supply teakwood and other items at a reasonable cost to the net operators.

Kerala Tourism plans to revive the beach’s charm by utilising tsunami funds and money allocated under the beach-tourism circuit. Under this, the Harbour Engineering Department would rebuild the sea wall and the beach’s walkway. The proposal to distribute 32 food courts built near the beach four years ago, has been further delayed following intervention by political parties and trade unions.

In addition to developing Fort Kochi, plans are afoot to repair the fragile bridge that connects the Vypeen-Munambam Road with Cherai beach. The walkway that was damaged in the tsunami and frequent incursions by the sea, would be repaired.

Kerala Tourism is also developing amenities in the suburbs.