In a coordinated effort to improve sanitation, protect marine ecosystems, and enhance operational efficiency, the Department of Fisheries, in association with the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council, carried out a large-scale cleanliness drive at the Fish Landing Centre in Junglighat.
The initiative, conducted in two phases during February 2026 and again from March 26 to 28, targeted the removal of accumulated waste and the promotion of sustainable practices at one of the region’s key fisheries hubs. Officials and members of the fishermen community actively participated in the exercise, focusing on restoring hygiene and ensuring better fish handling conditions.
During the drive, authorities removed substantial quantities of waste that had built up over time at the site. The materials cleared included ghost nets, discarded thermocol, broken pieces of fishing equipment, and parts of damaged boats. These items, often left unmanaged, posed risks to both environmental health and the quality of fish being handled at the landing centre.
Officials confirmed that a total of 15 truckloads of waste were removed during the operation. The large-scale clearance marked a significant intervention aimed at improving environmental management practices and streamlining activities at the facility. By clearing the site of debris, the administration sought to create a safer and cleaner working environment for fishers and workers.
Alongside the physical cleanup, the initiative also focused on awareness among local fishing communities. Authorities engaged with fishers to highlight the importance of responsible waste disposal and the long-term impact of marine pollution. The campaign encouraged fishers to avoid discarding waste materials into the sea or surrounding areas, reinforcing the need for collective responsibility in maintaining ecological balance.
The awareness efforts stressed the link between cleanliness at landing centres and the sustainability of fisheries. Officials underlined that improper waste disposal not only harms marine life but also affects the quality and market value of fish, directly impacting livelihoods dependent on the sector.
The Department of Fisheries stated that the drive reflects a broader commitment to improving infrastructure and maintaining hygiene standards at fisheries landing centres. By working in collaboration with local bodies such as the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council, the department aims to strengthen ongoing efforts to ensure cleaner coastal environments.
Authorities indicated that similar initiatives will continue in the future, with a focus on sustaining cleanliness, promoting environmentally responsible practices, and supporting the long-term viability of the fisheries sector.
