Wed, Dec 14, 2011, 11:01 am SL Time, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
Dec 14, Colombo: Fisheries Minister of Sri Lanka Dr. Rajitha Senaratne says that three new fishery harbors are to be built as part of to improving the maritime economy in the country.
Dr. Senaratne said the new harbors would be built in Gandara in Matara district, Gurunagar in Jaffna district and Silavathura in Mannar district.
He added that the Ministry has also planned to develop seven existing fishery harbors in the country. The seven harbors are at Kudawella, Puranawella, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, Beruwela, Dikowita and Kalametiya.
The Minister noted that the development would commence soon after receiving approval from the planning department. The Cabinet approved the proposal to develop the three harbors in September 2010.
According to Dr. Senaratne, the development work in the fisheries sector would help increase the job opportunities in the industry.
According to official data, Sri Lanka's fishing fleet is over 43,000 and the fishing population exceeds 171,470.