YS Jagan Mohan Reddy Commits to Harbour De-Privatization for Fishermen in Andhra Pradesh
In a significant political declaration, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSRCP chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has pledged to de-privatize all harbours in the state and dedicate them exclusively to fishermen communities upon returning to power. This assurance was made during his visit to Juvvaladinne harbour in Nellore district on Wednesday, where he directly engaged with local fishing communities.
Criticism of NDA Government's Harbour Policies
Addressing fishermen after inspecting the harbour facilities, Jagan launched a sharp critique against the NDA coalition government led by Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu. He accused the administration of systematically destroying the blue economy by handing over crucial harbour infrastructure to private entities. "This government has chosen commercial interests over the livelihoods of our fishermen," Jagan asserted during his speech.
The YSRCP leader specifically questioned why Juvveladinne harbour, which was completed during his own tenure as chief minister, was privatized to a defense company instead of being allocated to local fishing communities. "There is ample land available at the nearby Krishnapatnam port for commercial development, yet this government deliberately gave away this harbour land," he noted, highlighting what he described as misplaced priorities.
Recalling YSRCP's Maritime Infrastructure Initiatives
Jagan reminded audiences that during the YSRCP government's term, comprehensive maritime infrastructure was planned and approved, including:
- Four major ports
- Ten fishing harbours
- Six fish landing centers
This ambitious coastal development project, valued at approximately Rs 26,000 crore, had secured all necessary permissions from the Maritime Board. Jagan explained that although Juvvaladinne harbour construction was completed under YSRCP governance, its inauguration was delayed due to the model code of conduct implemented during the 2024 elections.
Post-Inauguration Privatization and Promised Corrections
The former chief minister detailed how after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the harbour, the Naidu government allocated Juvvaladinne to a private defense company, which Jagan claims has severely impacted local fishermen's interests. "We will take immediate corrective measures when we assume power again," he promised, outlining specific initiatives including:
- Dedicating all harbours exclusively to fishermen communities
- Providing 1,250 mechanized boats at 90% subsidy
- Supporting over 25,000 families through shared boat ownership
- Substantially boosting the blue economy through these measures
Jagan alleged that "Chandrababu Naidu has consistently harmed fishermen's livelihoods to advance his commercial agenda," framing the harbour issue as part of a broader pattern of neglect toward traditional coastal communities.
Additional Allegations Regarding Fishermen Protection
The opposition leader further criticized the state government for failing to protect Andhra Pradesh fishermen from incursions by Tamil Nadu fishing vessels. He recounted incidents where local fishermen intercepted heavy mechanized boats from Tamil Nadu entering Andhra waters and turned them over to authorities.
Jagan made a startling claim that "just four days after Nara Lokesh's visit to this area, the confiscated boats mysteriously disappeared," alleging involvement by local political figures he identified as the "Beda brothers," along with an MP and MLA. He stated that call data records exist showing communication between these officials and the boats' owners, suggesting possible collusion.
The YSRCP chief's comprehensive address at Juvvaladinne harbour represents a significant political positioning ahead of future elections, with maritime policy and fishermen welfare emerging as central campaign issues. His promises aim to resonate deeply with coastal communities who depend on harbour access for their economic survival.
