Kerala's first fishing twine factory is ready in Alappuzha

The state's first fishing twine factory (thread twisting machine) is getting ready at Paravur in Alappuzha. The unit, which is being set up by the Kerala State Fisheries Development Cooperative Federation (Matsyafed), will produce high-quality twine, the main thread used in manufacturing fishing nets.

According to Matsyafed chairman T. Manoharan, all machinery installation has been completed and the facility is expected to be operational on February 15. Once the unit starts production, it will supply twine to Matsyafed's three fishing net factories in Kochi, Kannur and Thiruvananthapuram.

“The biggest beneficiary of this unit will be the fishing community, especially the traditional fishermen in the state. By making twine at their own facilities, they will be able to produce higher quality fishing gear and bring it to fishermen at an affordable price. We will be able to provide it,” says Manoharan.

Twine is manufactured by twisting nylon threads made from caprolactam chips. In the initial stage, Matsyafed plans to produce 500 tonnes of twine per year using yarn sourced externally.

“There is no organization in Kerala that produces thread or twine required for manufacturing fishing gear. Matsyafed manufactures various types of fishing nets annually using twine procured from outside at ₹290 per kg. 1,250 tonnes. We aim to meet 40% of our twine demand (3 mills combined) through our Paravur unit. The production of twine at our Paravur mill requires a It is expected to cost around ₹260 per kg, including ₹220 per kg. This will help Matyafed sell the fishing gear at a discounted price,” said a Matyafed executive.

Matsyafed set up the facility on 1.5 acres of land at a cost of 5.5 billion rupees, including 5 billion rupees approved by the state government. The unit will employ approximately 50 people.

Officials said the facility is equipped with the latest machinery, including seven new double-deck TFO machines, five cheese winding machines and two cup winding machines. The facility was mooted by then Fisheries Minister Tink Biswal a few years ago, but the project was delayed due to COVID-19.