The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on July 16 marked the completion of Mirissa fishing harbor – which provides livelihoods for 7,500 families in this tsunami-affected area.

The project is a key element of USAID’s Sri Lanka Tsunami Reconstruction Program and was developed in partnership with the Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation under the aegis of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.

A new 100m long quay wall has been constructed to facilitate berthing of the almost 200 multi-day boats registered in the harbor; renovated breakwaters now protect the boats inside the harbor from potentially damaging waves; the auction hall has been renovated; and water and sanitation facilities have been enhanced to improve the working conditions for fishermen.