Chennai is set to boost its ornamental fish trade with a new centre in Kolathur, inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Covering 3.93 acres in Siva Sakthi Colony, the two-storey facility will include 188 shops, office spaces, and parking, aimed at transforming Kolathur into a major fish trading hub. This development is part of a broader INR 1,000 crore North Chennai Development Scheme, which includes six additional projects like community halls, modern laundry hubs, and lake improvements. The initiative seeks to enhance infrastructure and local amenities, supporting both economic growth and community well-being in the region.
Chennai is set to enhance its ornamental fish trade with the launch of a new trade centre in Kolathur. This upcoming facility, which will be built over 3.93 acres of land in Siva Sakthi Colony, aims to establish a commercial hub dedicated to the vibrant ornamental fish market. Chief Minister M K Stalin recently laid the foundation stone for this centre, which is part of a larger initiative aimed at improving infrastructure and community amenities in North Chennai.
The ornamental fish trade centre will feature a two-storey building designed to accommodate diverse business activities. It will house 188 shops designed for traders, with 70 shops on the first floor and 54 on the second floor. Other significant amenities will include office spaces, a canteen, and parking facilities for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers. According to officials from the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA), this new centre is expected to transform Kolathur into a bustling market for ornamental fish trade, fostering local entrepreneurship and boosting the economy.
Besides the fish trade centre, Chief Minister Stalin inaugurated six additional development projects in North Chennai. These include essential community facilities such as a community hall and a modern laundry hub, alongside improvements for local lakes, including Puzhal, Retteri, and Kolathur lakes. These projects are part of the North Chennai Development Scheme, which has a total budget of INR 1,000 crore aimed at addressing the infrastructural deficits in the region. This initiative recognizes the existing gaps in facilities in northern Chennai, focusing on equitable development across the city.
Additionally, the development of the Puzhal lake will encompass numerous enhancements, such as a high-level walkway, a natural viewing area, a children's play park, and modern drainage systems. These improvements are intended not only to rejuvenate these local water bodies but also to provide better recreational options for residents.
The broader aim of the North Chennai Development Scheme is to invest substantially in the community's growth. Key projects under this scheme include the construction of model schools, housing developments, and skill development centres. In March, CM Stalin launched 219 projects worth INR 4,378 crore, all designed to enhance the quality of life in North Chennai.
The ornamental fish trade has long been a significant part of Chennai's economy, with many local fish breeders and traders thriving in this sector. By promoting a dedicated trade centre, the government is not only supporting existing businesses but also encouraging new entrants into the market. As the centre progresses, it is anticipated to create numerous job opportunities for locals, making a positive impact on the overall community.
In conclusion, with this ambitious plan, Kolathur is on the verge of becoming a vital centre for ornamental fish trading in Chennai. The ongoing projects will address critical infrastructure needs while fostering economic development, making a substantial difference in the lives of residents in North Chennai. The strategic focus on enhancing local business opportunities, paired with improvements in community amenities, illustrates the government's commitment to elevating the region's overall resilience and vibrancy.