The Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department has launched a new bid for almost 200 cheap, fibre‑reinforced plastic (FRP) coracles, aimed at boosting flood response in cities like Chennai.
Each coracle will cost roughly ₹13,000 and is designed for shallow floodwater – not the deep rivers but the streets that suddenly turn into rivers during heavy rain.
The order is part of a wider plan by the State Disaster Management Department to equip local authorities with tools that can save lives when floods hit. In addition to the coracles, the department will buy about 300 simple boats, most without engines or propellers. Those 300 boats will cost between ₹1.5 lakh and ₹2 lakh each and have to be strong, buoyant and able to carry several people or supplies.
“This is the second tender after the first one failed to draw enough bidders,” said a department source. The new tender focuses on durability; the boats are expected to last at least five years with little upkeep, as long as the sun is kept out of them.
Once bought, the coracles and boats will be handed to district collectors for quick deployment when floods come. Chennai, which has seen more flooding in recent years, relies heavily on local fishermen for rescue work. A boat today can be rented for about ₹4,000 a day, making a new purchase at ₹1.5 lakh a smarter, long‑term investment for the government.
An industry expert added that the Fisheries Department should keep the fleet on standby all year. The boats could help the Revenue Department during floods and serve farming communities for reservoir checks the rest of the year.
A retired fisheries officer remembered using around 20 coracles from Mettur dam during the 2018‑19 Chennai floods. He recalled a vivid story: a baby was delivered inside a coracle at Padappai because the small craft could glide easily through flooded city streets.
By buying these lightweight, low‑cost boats and coracles, Tamil Nadu hopes to improve its readiness for the rising frequency of urban flooding and protect more residents when the next heavy rain hits.
Source: ianslive
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