With heavy rainfall and turbulent sea conditions continuing to affect the district, the Kollam district administration has announced a comprehensive revamping of its disaster management framework.

Under the updated protocols, local fishermen will be directly integrated into emergency response and sea-rescue operations to leverage their traditional navigational expertise during coastal crises.

Presiding over a special meeting held on Saturday to review coastal security, District Collector Anie Jula Thomas said that seamless coordination among various government departments will be ensured to put enhanced safety arrangements in place.

To build local capacity for disaster response, grassroots-level training programmes will be organised for the fishing community. The administration is also working to provide life jackets to fishermen’s unions through subsidies, tapping into Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds from private institutions.

While safety gear will be made mandatory for all those venturing into the sea, the registration of all fishing crafts and workers will also be ensured. At the meeting, the Collector instructed the officials concerned to expedite pending registration applications.

As part of bolstering rescue infrastructure, the operational efficiency of existing water ambulances and government-deployed rescue boats will be reviewed and improved, alongside plans to procure a dedicated marine ambulance and ensure the availability of expert divers.

Additionally, coastal infrastructure at fishing harbours will undergo development, while awareness drives will be conducted regarding insurance policies and the renewal of Welfare Fund Board memberships. The Collector has urged the fishing community to strictly adhere to weather warnings and safety protocols issued by government agencies to navigate the hazardous season.

Published - August 01, 2026 06:53 pm IST