Sat Jan 11 19:40:31 UTC 2025: ## Chennai Fishermen Protest Proposed Sea Bridge, Citing Livelihood Concerns

**Chennai, January 12, 2025** – A proposed sea bridge connecting the Marina Lighthouse to Neelankarai in Chennai is facing strong opposition from the city’s fishing community. Over 5,000 families fear the project will destroy their livelihoods and displace them.

Community leaders warn that the bridge’s construction will severely impact fishing activities, potentially leading to coastal erosion and loss of life. They point to similar issues in Mumbai, where coastal constructions have caused significant damage. Concerns are also raised about the increased risk to fishermen navigating the bridge’s pillars, especially at night.

Ko.Su. Mani, a community leader, highlighted the projected rise in sea levels by 2050 and criticized the government for prioritizing the bridge over providing alternative housing for vulnerable coastal communities. He emphasized that the beach is their workplace, and the bridge’s construction would render it unusable.

K. Bharathi of the Meenavar Makkal Katchi echoed these concerns, stating that the project would exacerbate coastal erosion and force people to abandon their traditional profession. Kabbadi Maran, another leader, drew parallels to the displacement of fishing communities in North Chennai due to port development and industrial pollution, warning that the proposed bridge would have a similarly devastating impact on the south Chennai communities.

In response, an all-party fishermen’s organizing committee has been formed, and plans are underway to meet with political leaders and submit petitions to government officials to halt the project. The fishermen are united in their opposition, demanding the government reconsider the project and prioritize the welfare of their communities.

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