The wage package for the Kattupalli fishermen who worked at the port-cum-ship building yard after giving up their lands for its development has been improved. The fishermen have been holding a number of rallies to seek greater pay because this issue has long remained unresolved. The new package, which will cost a total of 24,500 a month, includes elements for housing allowance, travel, and food costs. The compensation increase would take effect in a retroactive fashion as of October 2022.
The agreement, which was signed by the management of L&T Ship Building Yard, Adani Port, and Marine Infrastructure Development Pvt. Ltd. and the members of the industrial cooperative organization, will benefit a total of 127 men and two women.
The relatives of four people who died while working at the port during the time period will also be given jobs. About 40 of the males have consented to participate in upskilling courses.
During the signing ceremony, Tiruvallur Collector Alby John Varghese said that the fishermen will be a part of the industrial cooperative society that would be established under the District Industries Center. Additionally, he continued, “they will receive 4% annual raises on each of their base salaries as well as about 3% based on competence and performance.”
D. Kannan, a resident of Kattupalli, expressed his gratitude to the district administration for intervening on their behalf. “Despite promises being made, not all of them were kept. Now that the matter has been resolved, we feel relieved. Life can continue on as normal. I’m hoping the company honors its commitments,” he continued.
