Sri Vijaya Puram, July 14: The Andaman and Nicobar Administration has commissioned a 5 MT Ice Plant at Govind Nagar in Swaraj Dweep to strengthen fisheries infrastructure, improve fish preservation and reduce post-harvest losses, providing direct support to around 250 fishermen and more than 80 fishing boats operating from the area.
The newly constructed facility was dedicated to the fishing community by Chief Secretary Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar in the presence of senior Administration officials, Govind Nagar Pradhan Ajit Kumar Roy, Shyam Nagar Pradhan Alok Mridha and members of the local fishing community.
Developed by the Department of Fisheries, the ice plant has the capacity to produce 120 ice blocks of 55 kg each every day. The facility has been established to ensure the timely availability of quality ice for fish preservation, enabling fishermen to maintain the freshness and quality of their catch while improving post-harvest handling.
According to the Department of Fisheries, the project is expected to reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen the fish preservation capacity of Swaraj Dweep. The improved cold chain infrastructure is also expected to enhance the availability of fresh seafood for residents as well as tourists visiting the Islands.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Secretary Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar said the Administration remains committed to the sustainable development of the fisheries sector through the creation of infrastructure and initiatives that support the livelihoods of fishing communities.
He referred to recent measures undertaken by the Administration, including the issuance of Access Passes for fishing in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the commencement of commercial open sea cage culture. He said these initiatives are expected to generate new livelihood opportunities while promoting the sustainable utilisation of marine resources. He also appreciated the efforts of the Department of Fisheries in strengthening infrastructure for the sector.
Earlier, Secretary (Fisheries) Rajanish Kumar Singh highlighted the importance of expanding fisheries infrastructure across the Islands and said the newly established ice plant would strengthen the cold chain available to fishermen. He noted that the facility is expected to improve fish preservation and contribute to better livelihood opportunities for the local fishing community.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Joint Director (Fisheries) Dr. K. Gopal.
The commissioning of the 5 MT Ice Plant marks another addition to fisheries infrastructure in Swaraj Dweep, with the facility expected to support efficient fish handling, minimise spoilage and improve the availability of quality seafood by ensuring uninterrupted access to ice for the local fishing community.
