The draft master plan-2041 prepared by Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority has proposed seven fishery development nodes in Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram districts in areas like Revupolavaram, Muthyalammapalem, Chinnamangamaripeta, etc. The VMRDA region has a nearly 250 km coastline dotted with 80 fishing villages, which is 26% of the coast length in Andhra Pradesh. Fishing is a traditional occupation in the region. Andhra Pradesh has favourable agro-climatic conditions for the growth of fisheries and aquaculture sector. The state is contributing as much as 29.7% of national fish production. It is a major exporter of shrimp in India with a share of 40.4% in total value of seafood exports of the country during the 2019-20 financial year. The sector is providing employment to nearly 26.5 lakh people. Fisheries contribute 7.4% of the gross state domestic product of Andhra Pradesh. Hence, due importance is being given to conserve and harness this traditional occupation in the region in the VMRDA draft master plan-2041. Apart from the fishery development nodes, the other prominent suggestions given in the draft plan for this sector are to increase infrastructure facilities, employment-based allied industries, and proposal of new fishing harbours in areas like Etcherla, Kalingapatnam, Bheemili and Pudimadaka.
Key objectives of the recommendations are to sustain fish production, promote fishermen welfare, address critical gaps in the infrastructure for the value chain, and to promote domestic fish consumption in the state. Skill development and creating fishing infrastructure will boost the declining active fishermen. Provisioning of mini harbours or jetties will increase the number of crafts, which will eventually increase the economy of fisherfolk. The envisaged logistic connectivity, proposed development plans, and exporting facilities would make the region advantageous for these establishments. The master plan also proposes encouraging the primary sector by adopting sustainable agricultural practices and technologies. This will conserve fertile agricultural land and help in optimum use of available resources without hindering the rural fabric. Providing required infrastructure and easy access to markets will boost the local economy and aid in easy transfer of agricultural commodities.
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