Transformative Engagement with Fishermen Community of Kalavoor Harbour, Alappuzha

In a bid to understand and address the challenges faced by the fishermen community at Kalavoor Harbour in Alappuzha, our foundation organized a transformative engagement session. This initiative aimed to gather insights directly from the community members, identify their pressing issues, and explore sustainable solutions to enhance their livelihoods and well-being. The engagement session was held at the community centre near Kalavoor Harbour, with over 100 fishermen and their families in attendance. Our team conducted a series of focused group discussions with different segments of the community, including active fishermen, women involved in fish processing and marketing, and youth interested in alternative livelihood opportunities. These discussions provided a platform for community members to voice their concerns and share their experiences. One of the primary issues highlighted was the declining fish catch, attributed to overfishing, pollution, and changing marine ecosystems. The fishermen expressed their anxiety over their dwindling income and the need for alternative sources of livelihood. In response, our foundation proposed several measures, including the introduction of sustainable fishing practices, training in aquaculture, and the establishment of fish farming cooperatives. The discussions also revealed the need for better infrastructure at the harbour. The fishermen pointed out the lack of proper storage facilities, leading to significant post-harvest losses. Our foundation is committed to exploring partnerships with local authorities to improve the harbour's infrastructure, including cold storage units and modern fish processing facilities. Women from the community voiced their challenges in accessing markets and fair prices for their products. They requested training in value-added fish products and assistance in establishing direct market linkages. Our foundation pledged to organize skill development workshops for women and facilitate connections with larger markets and retailers. Healthcare emerged as another critical concern, with limited access to medical facilities and high incidences of occupational health issues. Our foundation proposed the introduction of mobile health clinics and regular health camps to provide essential medical services to the community. Additionally, awareness sessions on occupational safety and preventive healthcare measures were planned. Education and skill development for the youth were identified as key areas for long-term community development. The youth expressed a desire for vocational training programs that would equip them with skills for alternative employment opportunities. Our foundation is committed to setting up vocational training centers and collaborating with local educational institutions to offer relevant courses.