Uran: The Rs 256-crore Karanja Fishing Port, once hailed as a game-changer for thousands of fishermen in Raigad district, is now facing a severe crisis. The port, which exports fish worth Rs450 to Rs 500 crore annually, is struggling under the burden of massive silt accumulation, leaving around 350 to 400 fishing boats stranded during low tide.
Fishermen say that due to the silt build-up, boats often have to wait up to four hours to unload their catch and exit the port. The problem has escalated to the point where operations at the port have become erratic and inefficient.
“This port was a boon for the fishing community, but now it feels like a burden. Boats get stuck during both high and low tides. We’ve written to the port and fisheries department demanding urgent dredging,” said Pradeep Nakhwa, President of the Karanja Fishing Society.
Industry leaders are warning that if the issue is not resolved quickly, it could cripple the fishing economy in the region. “The port must operate 24/7 for fish loading and unloading. If the silt problem continues, it’s as good as not having a port at all,” said Ramesh Nakhwa, Director of the West Coast Purse Seine Net Fishermen Welfare Association.
The situation is not only affecting the operational efficiency of the port but also causing economic losses and wasting valuable time. Boats are unable to enter or leave the harbor smoothly, leading to delays and financial strain on fishermen.
Experts also point out that the height of the port, designed to accommodate 1,000 fishing boats, is currently two feet lower than required, resulting in frequent collisions during high tide.
Unless immediate steps are taken to dredge the port and improve its infrastructure, the very purpose of the Karanja Fishing Port could be defeated, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of coastal families.