Traditional fishermen get Rs. 3.02 crore relief from UPCL

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, Jan 03, 2015:   UPCL - Udupi Power Corporation Ltd., it is said has transferred Rs. 3.02 crore to the district administration to be given as compensation to 302 “Kairampani” or traditional seashore fishermen for the losses suffered by them during the laying of a pipeline for the thermal plant.

Yellur Bharat Kumar, head of the Six Traditional Seashore Fishermen’s Associations, said that when the pipeline was laid to pump in and pump out water for the coal-based thermal plant of UPCL, the seashore fishermen could not cast their nets in the area between Yermal Tenka and Yermal Bada villages. As a result, they suffered loss  in fish catch, that reduced their earnings.   The association had urged the State government in 2009 to provide compensation for the fall in fish catch. The 302 fishermen belonged to six “Kairampani” funds or associations.

After much effort by these associations, and support from elected representatives, the company had agreed to provide a compensation of Rs. 3.02 crore for these affected fishermen at the rate of Rs. 1 lakh per fishermen.

Udupi DC Dr. R. Vishal,  said that the administration received the amount from the company about a week ago.

He had approved the transfer of fund to the Udupi Tahsildar.  He had directed the Tahsildar to verify the claims and disburse the amount to the 302 eligible fishermen in close coordination with the Joint Director of Fisheries.