Situated on Chennai’s southeastern coast, Kasimedu is among the most bustling and expansive fishing villages in the region. The port serves as a hub for both large-scale trawlers hauling in sizable catches and small fiberglass boats operated by traditional fishers employing age-old techniques like rod-and-line fishing and net casting.
Despite their deep-rooted expertise, traditional fishers face mounting challenges. As per open reports, one of the prominent leaders in a local fishing association of India, threw light on their struggles by saying that For Small-Scale fishers, Competing with mechanized boats is a losing battle. The trawlers sweep up the fish before these fishers can even get a chance. Many of them have been forced to abandon independent fishing and take up work as laborers on trawl boats.
To counteract this imbalance, the Participatory Learning Action Network and Training (PLANT) group initiated an artificial reef project in 2022. By submerging 200 concrete structures at two coastal sites near Kasimedu, the organization aimed to create a marine habitat. Over time, these artificial reefs became host to algae, coral, and shellfish, providing a haven for small fish and crustaceans, which in turn attracted larger predatory fish.
Some media reports highlighted a fisherman who has benefited from the initiative, expressing his relief and mentioned that they no longer need to venture into deep waters to catch high-market-value fish like kingfish and trevally. This has not only reduced the fuel expenses bestowed upon them but also significantly improved their income.
A Nationwide Expansion of Artificial Reefs
Kasimedu is just one of 25 fishing villages in Tamil Nadu where PLANT has installed artificial reefs. Founded by RT Suresh, the organization is supported by funding from the UN Development Programme, the Australian Embassy, and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).
PLANT’s director, Amulrani, in a report, explained the ecological impact of these reefs by stating that the concrete structures are usually placed on rocky seabeds, and biofilm, algae, plankton, and other organisms begin to flourish, within six months, making them attractive to fish populations. The success of this initiative has prompted many local fishers to advocate for more installations.
Recognizing the potential of artificial reefs, the Indian central government took a major step in 2023 by announcing a large-scale expansion. The plan aims to introduce artificial reefs across thousands of fishing villages, marking one of the most ambitious marine restoration projects in the country.
Evolution of Artificial Reefs in India
India’s artificial reef movement has evolved significantly over the decades. In the 1980s, fishers would drop materials into the waters and claim that respective area as their own fishing ground. Such efforts eventually inspired the first government-backed artificial reef project in 1990, funded by the Kerala government at Pozhiyoor.
During the 1990s, artificial reef installations expanded to the Lakshadweep Islands and other coastal areas in Kerala. By the early 2010s, Tamil Nadu became a key location for artificial reef deployment. In 2012, the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) secured a patent for concrete artificial reef structures, further cementing their role in marine conservation and fisheries management.
These reefs serve multiple purposes beyond fishing, such as mitigating coastal erosion, preserving marine biodiversity, and fostering water sports like surfing and diving. However, the government’s primary focus remains on sustaining fisheries.
In August 2023, the Department of Fisheries announced a massive artificial reef expansion, aiming to deploy these structures in 3,477 fishing villages nationwide under the leadership of CMFRI. As of September 2024, funding had been approved for 937 installations, covering various states and union territories. The estimated cost of the initiative is INR 2.9 billion (USD 34.5 million), as reported by various sources.
Kerala has emerged as a focal point for artificial reef development. CMFRI has deployed reefs across 42 fishing villages in Thiruvananthapuram, while the state government has proposed an additional INR 550 million (USD 6.5 million) investment to expand the project to 192 more villages. Similar efforts are underway in Maharashtra and Odisha, indicating the project’s growing nationwide reach.
The Cost and Sustainability Challenge
The financial burden of artificial reefs remains a key concern. According to PLANT, the cost of producing and installing 200-300 reef modules ranges between INR 2.5-3 million (USD 29,600-35,500). CMFRI estimates that a 250-module reef can cost between INR 3.5-4 million, with variations depending on site conditions, labor, and transportation expenses.
The central government’s initiative is being funded under the Prime Minister’s Fish Wealth Scheme (PMMSY), with a 60% contribution from the central government and the remaining amount covered by state governments. However, while the rollout is promising, concerns are growing in Tamil Nadu about the long-term viability and maintenance of these artificial reefs.
What are the Fishermen’s Concerns
Despite initial benefits, some artificial reefs have led to unintended consequences. Along the coasts of Karaikal in Tamil Nadu, fishers report that their nets frequently get entangled in these structures, rendering the areas difficult to fish in. “It’s becoming more trouble than it’s worth as many nets get trapped” says a local fisherman. As a result, some have abandoned these zones altogether.
While some fishers actively maintain the reefs by clearing entangled nets and debris, others argue that insufficient oversight has led to the neglect of several installations. In Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, many artificial reefs are no longer serving their intended purpose. “Trawlers’ nets often get tangled in these structures, making them unusable for us,” laments another local fisher.
Ocean researchers criticizes the indiscriminate placement of artificial reefs, arguing that they should be restricted to areas where hook-and-line fishing is prevalent. The CMFRI deployed reefs in all 42 villages in Thiruvananthapuram in the previous year, even in places where they were unwanted. These reefs become ‘ghost nets’ that trap marine life for years without regular maintenance.
Additionally, some researchers argue that artificial reefs do not necessarily increase fish populations but instead concentrate existing fish stocks, making them easier to catch. A government fisheries official, who requested anonymity, expressed concerns over potential marine imbalances due to artificial reefs creating managed fishing areas that may disrupt natural fish distribution patterns. There are also concerns that these structures could become breeding grounds for invasive species.
How other Nations paved “The Way”
United States’ Large-Scale Artificial Reef Programs: The U.S. has one of the most well-structured artificial reef programs, beginning as early as the 1940s. Florida, Alabama, and Texas have led the efforts, deploying reefs made from decommissioned oil rigs, sunken ships, and concrete structures. The National Artificial Reef Plan (NARP) helped standardize the practice.
Impact & Success Rate
- Artificial reefs generate $253 million annually in just six counties in Florida from fishing and diving tourism.
- Fish stocks increased significantly, leading to a 30-40% rise in fishing revenue.
- Boosted sport fishing and diving industries, increasing employment in these sectors.
- Some studies indicate that artificial reefs can attract excessive fishing, leading to localized depletion.
Comparison with India
- Unlike India, where artificial reefs are community-driven, the U.S. model is heavily government-backed with strong regulations.
- India’s reefs primarily benefit artisanal fishers, while in the U.S., they also cater to recreational and commercial fishing industries.
- The U.S. has dedicated policies and funding, whereas India’s projects are scattered and dependent on local efforts.
Japan’s Technological Innovation in Artificial Reefs: Japan began using artificial reefs in the 1970s to counter declining fish stocks and create structured habitats in its territorial waters. The Japanese government has invested millions of dollars into reef technology, using steel, concrete, and even 3D-printed structures to create optimal fish habitats.
Impact & Success Rate
- Japan’s reefs have contributed to a 50% increase in fish population density in some areas.
- The fishing industry, particularly for species like tuna and sea bream, saw a 40% rise in yields.
- Heavy state intervention ensures that artificial reef projects are regularly monitored and optimized.
- High maintenance costs and complex logistics make this a capital-intensive
Comparison with India
- Japan’s artificial reefs are highly advanced and well-funded, while India’s are relatively low-cost and locally managed.
- Japan has precise scientific planning, while India relies on community experience and traditional knowledge.
- Unlike India, Japan integrates artificial reefs with marine protected areas and aquaculture development.
Malaysia’s Community-Based Artificial Reefs: Malaysia began deploying artificial reefs in the 1980s to help local fishermen and improve declining fisheries. The government and NGOs supported projects in states like Terengganu and Sabah.
Impact & Success Rate
- In Kuala Kedah and Pulau Langkawi, incomes increased by 35% due to improved fish stocks.
- Artificial reefs enhanced scuba diving and snorkeling, leading to a 20% growth in marine tourism revenue.
- Reefs deter trawler fishing, allowing fish stocks to replenish naturally.
- Some reefs were found to be ineffective due to poor material choice and lack of long-term planning.
Comparison with India
- Both India and Malaysia use community-driven models, but Malaysia’s projects receive more financial support from the government.
- India’s reefs are mainly used for small-scale fisheries, while Malaysia has expanded into tourism and conservation efforts.
Yemen’s Grassroots Artificial Reef Development: Due to the economic crisis, fishermen in Yemen started constructing their own artificial reefs using scrap materials like old tires and wood. The initiative was entirely community-led, as fishermen sought to revive fish stocks lost to industrial trawling.
Impact & Success Rate
- Fishermen using artificial reefs reported a 30% rise in daily catches.
- In a country struggling with conflict, the initiative provided a stable source of income for coastal communities.
- The use of non-biodegradable materials like tires poses ecological concerns.
- No formal support from the government, making projects vulnerable to mismanagement.
Comparison with India
- Yemen’s artificial reefs, like India’s, are low-cost and community-driven, but India has government and institutional backing (e.g., CMFRI).
- India follows scientific planning, whereas Yemen’s approach is entirely trial-based and informal.
- India faces fewer security and economic constraints compared to Yemen, allowing for better sustainability and policy-driven expansion.
While the initiative has been met with some skepticism, Experts remain hopeful. Artificial reefs could be a game-changer for traditional fishers if implemented correctly. But without proper planning and maintenance, we risk turning them into political tools rather than genuine solutions.
