Chennai, June 5
In a move aimed at curbing marine pollution and promoting sustainable fishing practices, the Tamil Nadu Environment Department is planning to establish 14 additional fishnet collection centres across all coastal districts of the state.
This initiative follows the remarkable success of a pilot fishnet collection centre launched at the Kasimedu Fishing Harbour in Chennai in August 2024.
According to officials, the pilot centre has, until May 2025, collected over 18.5 tonnes of marine litter and Abandoned, Lost or Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG).
As part of the incentive scheme, ₹7.21 lakh has been distributed to fishermen who participated in the recycling efforts.
“These materials would have otherwise remained in the ocean, causing significant harm to marine life and habitats,” an official from the Environment Department said and added, “The pilot project’s success has shown that community-led recycling can play a critical role in coastal conservation.”
A recent assessment conducted across 64 coastal villages in 13 districts of Tamil Nadu found that ALDFG constitutes the primary source of beach litter, with an average density of 1.14 items per square metre.
The study underscores the urgent need for strengthening Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mechanisms and improving waste reception infrastructure at fishing harbours.
ALDFG includes discarded fishnets, ropes, traps, buoys, and plastic fishing gear.