The Department of Fisheries has announced that the Hejamadi Kodi fishing harbour development in Udupi district, Karnataka, has reached 87% physical progress and is set for completion by March 2026. The project, approved in August 2018, has a total cost of Rs 1.38 billion, with Rs 346.5 million allocated under the Sagarmala Scheme. This upgrade aims to enhance coastal infrastructure and improve operational efficiency for the local fishing community The Hejamadi Kodi Harbour Project in Karnataka has recorded an impressive 87% progress, positioning it as one of the state’s fastest-advancing coastal infrastructure works under ongoing maritime development programmes.
Significantly Transform The Fishing Economy
As Karnataka continues strengthening its coastal belt through modern harbour systems, the Hejamadi Kodi project has become a crucial example of how infrastructure expansion can significantly transform the fishing economy and regional livelihood patterns. Located along the Udupi coastline, this harbour project is being built with the objective of offering advanced fishing facilities, safe berthing options, cold storage units, improved loading–unloading capacity, and a structured marine ecosystem that supports local fishermen. As construction nears its final phase, the project has started showcasing the potential to rewrite the economic landscape of surrounding.
Coastal villages, proving how focused maritime infrastructure can elevate both productivity and safety for fishing communities The current 87% completion stage highlights that breakwater expansion, harbour basin deepening, essential dredging, and most major civil works have already been executed. Breakwaters, which play a vital role in preventing strong wave action, have reached near-final shape, ensuring greater safety for fishing vessels entering and leaving the harbour. This achievement contributes significantly to long-term maritime stability, especially during monsoon seasons when traditional fishing structures often struggle. With advanced engineering interventions similar to those encouraged.
Modern Fishing Harbour Standards, Enabling
As per government updates and field assessments, much of the harbour basin’s internal infrastructure such as fish auction halls, net mending sheds, internal roads, and shore protection structures has already taken shape. These facilities are being built to match modern fishing harbour (India) standards, enabling smooth handling of marine produce while minimizing post-harvest losses. Once completed, fishermen will have more efficient access to storage systems, ensuring better quality control and reducing the wastage that traditionally affects marine product earnings The Hejamadi Kodi region has long depended on fishing as its primary livelihood source.
With the harbour project nearing completion, the local population is optimistic about new employment opportunities across fishing logistics, transportation, cold chains, and fish-processing units. The introduction of mechanized berthing facilities will allow safer anchoring of boats, preventing damage and protecting fishermen from unpredictable sea conditions. Enhanced marine infrastructure will also attract private investment, leading to auxiliary businesses such as ice plants, retail seafood markets, marine equipment shops, and value-addition industries. Such expansions not only increase income avenues but also strengthen the overall coastal economy, contributing to long-term sustainability and growth.
swiftly as major foundational work
The government’s consistent monitoring and periodic field reviews have been pivotal in ensuring rapid progress. The remaining 13% work includes final equipment installations, finishing touches to berthing structures, pavement construction, illumination systems, and harbour operational facilities. These final components are expected to move swiftly as major foundational work has already been completed Moreover, the project’s ecological impact has been studied extensively to ensure minimal damage to marine biodiversity. The construction strategy integrates coastal protection measures that stabilize shorelines and prevent long-term erosion.
This balance between infrastructure development and environmental safety makes the Hejamadi Kodi Harbour a model example for future maritime projects. As coastal demand rises and fishing activities intensify, the harbour will play a vital role in distributing marine traffic across (India) the region, reducing pressure on existing ports and promoting balanced growth Local fishermen have expressed confidence that the harbour will finally provide the structured support they need for safer, more efficient operations. The ability to store and auction fish in modern facilities will help them access larger markets and fair pricing. Additionally, improved road connectivity from.
Uplifting The Fishing Community
The harbour to nearby markets will drastically reduce the time taken for transportation, ensuring fresher supply and better earnings. By uplifting the fishing community’s livelihood conditions, the Hejamadi Kodi Harbour Project stands as a strong example of people-centric development With work expected to conclude soon, Karnataka is preparing to position Hejamadi Kodi as one of its most important fishing harbours, contributing to regional prosperity and the blue economy. As the state continues expanding its coastal development roadmap.
The successful execution of this harbour will encourage further investments across marine sectors, tourism, aquaculture, and port-related logistics. The 87% progress milestone is not merely a construction update but a signal of transformative growth for thousands of families dependent on the sea for their everyday lives.
Q1. What is the current progress of the Hejamadi Kodi Harbour Project?
The project has achieved 87% completion, with major civil and marine works almost finished.
Q2. Where is the Hejamadi Kodi Harbour located?
It is located in Udupi district, Karnataka, along the state’s coastal belt.
Q3. What benefits will the harbour provide to fishermen?
It will offer modern berthing, cold storage, safer navigation, and better auction facilities to improve earnings.
Q4. When is the Hejamadi Kodi Harbour Project expected to be completed?
Completion is expected soon, as only 13% final works like lighting, paving, and equipment installation remain.
Q5. Which government bodies are involved in this project?
The project is supported by the Government of Karnataka and central agencies under the Ports & Fisheries departments.
