A special discussion on the progress of the World Bank-funded ‘REVIVE’ (Regional Empowerment through Vibrant, Inclusive and Viable Economies) project and plans for its second phase, aimed at revitalizing the fisheries and aquaculture sector in the Northern and Eastern Provinces, was held yesterday (30) at the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources auditorium under the patronage of Secretary to the Ministry, Dr. B. K. Kolita Kamal Jinadasa.

A delegation of senior experts representing the World Bank participated in the discussions.

The meeting focused extensively on the modernization of infrastructure at the Trincomalee – Cod Bay Fisheries Harbour and the Jaffna – Gurunagar Fishing Village, identified under the ‘REVIVE 1’ project. Feasibility studies for both projects are scheduled to commence in September and are expected to be completed within four months.

Key proposals and objectives of the project:

• Cod Bay Harbour: Renovation of the harbour jetty and slipway, installation of modern refrigeration systems, and development of a 27-acre site for export-oriented fish processing centres.
• Gurunagar Fishing Village: Construction of modern fish auction halls, hygienic dry fish drying yards, and a two-lane access road to improve the livelihoods of 3,500 fishermen.

A major focus of the discussions was the preparation of project proposals for the second phase, ‘REVIVE 2’. The proposed initiatives include strengthening value-added supply chains for seaweed, sea cucumber, mud crab, sea bass, and shrimp cultivation across the Northern and Eastern Provinces, while also preparing the necessary aquaculture zoning plans.

The discussions also highlighted the need to identify international market opportunities for seaweed cultivation and explore technical knowledge-sharing with countries such as South Korea.

Addressing the gathering, Ministry Secretary Dr. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa said the Government’s objective is to transform Sri Lanka’s traditional fisheries sector into a modern, industrialized, and data-driven industry.

Among those present were the  Chairman of Ceylon Fishery  Harbours Corporation ,B.A.P. Kapila Bamunuarachchi, Chairman of NARA Sanath Hettiarachchi, Director General of Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources ,Susantha Kahawatte, senior officials of the Ministry, and members of the World Bank delegation.