Mangaluru: “Construction work of third phase of Mangaluru fishing port which was stopped due to some unavoidable reasons will be restarted soon,” said Fisheries Minister Pramod Madhwaraj.

He was speaking to the media personnel in an interaction programme held with them on Wednesday at Press Club.

“Still Rs 32 crore is pending to be sanctioned. I have spoke with Central minister regarding the matter and he has agreed to release Rs 10 crore soon. As soon as the fund gets released from the Central government construction work will be commenced,” he said.

He further said that in Karnataka the production of fish is more than necessary and it is not a good sign. This might have impact on fisheries in future. There is a need to concentrate on the protection of fish breeds.

“Mangaluru football ground has been developed at the cost of Rs 1 crore and for the swimming pool at Yermekere Rs 4.99 crore was estimated. But now estimated price have increased to Rs 12.50 crore which becomes very costly. So, I have directed the officials to stop unnecessary waste of money and to revise the estimation,” he added.

Further commenting on inclusion physical trainers to sports department he said “discussions are going on regarding this. If PT are included under sports department then development of sports becomes easier.”

Journalist Union President Jagannath Shetty Bala, KFDC President Rajesh Nayak and others were present.