This report underscores the deep cultural, social, and economic ties between fishing communities and coastal spaces. It asserts that beaches and coastal waters are not mere commodities but fundamental rights and heritage essential for fisherfolk’s livelihoods and well-being.
The Vizhinjam International Seaport (VIS), developed by the Government of Kerala, has proceeded without considering these rights, sparking controversy due to its social and environmental consequences. The port’s construction has intensified coastal erosion, displaced fishing families, and disrupted livelihoods, rendering Vizhinjam’s once-safe fishing harbor perilous. Allegations of data manipulation in project assessments, political influence in obtaining environmental clearance, and lack of community representation further exacerbate concerns.
In response, the Janakeeya Samara Samithi formed a research committee of oceanographers, scientists, and social scientists to document the port’s impacts. Their findings reveal worsening monsoonal erosion, biodiversity loss, and financial concessions favoring the private concessionaire at the public’s expense. Given the region’s ecological and social vulnerabilities, the report argues that Vizhinjam is an unsuitable location for such a large-scale port. It calls for urgent corrective measures to protect the rights and futures of fishing and coastal communities.
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