Agartala: The central government is on the verge of granting approval for a grand Integrated Aqua Park project slated for development in Unakoti District, Tripura. The ambitious project, envisioned by the state’s Fisheries Minister, Sudhangshu Das, is set to serve multiple purposes. It will initially serve as a captivating tourist destination where diverse fish species will be bred to entice visitors.
The project is also designed to include specific areas for cold storage and the establishment of selling sheds within its premises. This dual functionality allows visitors to not only revel in the area’s natural beauty but also gain insight into the various fish species native to the region and the country as a whole. Minister Das made this announcement during a press conference at the civil secretariat.
During his visit to Delhi, Minister Das submitted a comprehensive project report to Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairy, Parshottam Rupala, seeking approval for the proposed endeavor. Rupala’s response was overwhelmingly positive, as he expressed a keen interest in establishing such a facility in Tripura. A designated plot of land under the Chandipur assembly constituency has already been earmarked for the project, which is expected to require an impressive investment of Rs 99 crore.
In addition to the Aqua Park project, Minister Das presented several proposals to the Union Minister aimed at streamlining the services provided by the Animal Resource and Fisheries departments. One of these proposals concerns the restoration of unused water bodies. An estimated 250 hectares of water bodies in various parts of the state currently lie dormant. By revitalizing these water bodies and converting them for fish farming, the state anticipates a significant reduction in the gap between fish production and demand.
Minister Das also disclosed that a project for comprehensive infrastructure development at the RK Nagar Veterinary Hospital was put forth. This proposal encompasses projects worth Rs 57 crore for the vertical expansion of the RK Nagar veterinary hospital and an additional Rs 11 crore to establish mobile veterinary services across all rural development blocks. Furthermore, a proposal for establishing a Central University for Veterinary Sciences was presented during the meeting.
The meeting also addressed the establishment of a regional fishery training center, indicating a multi-faceted approach to improving the state’s overall fisheries and animal husbandry sector.
According to data from the fisheries department, Tripura’s fish production currently stands at 83,000 metric tons, marking a substantial increase from the previous year’s 70,000 metric tons. However, the state’s total fish requirement remains at 1,13,000 metric tons. Minister Das expressed determination to bridge this gap and make the state self-sufficient in fish production.
In the meantime, the department has decided to open 25 fish stores at various locations across the state to provide fish at subsidized prices during the Vijaya Dashami festival, ensuring that a wide variety of fish is accessible to all.
