Minority commission demands speedy completion of Muthalapozhi safety works

Thiruvananthapuram: State minority commission expressed strong dissatisfaction over the delay in completing various infrastructure and safety projects at Muthalapozhi despite the onset of the monsoon season. The commission directed the district collector to convene a meeting of officials concerned and take urgent steps to complete the pending works and ensure the area is safe.

Officials informed the commission that dredging operations aimed at removing accumulated sand from the estuary were disrupted after the dredger deployed for the work was damaged by strong waves. Although a fresh tender was invited, the contract could not be finalised as the amount quoted by bidders exceeded the prevailing LMR rates.

The district collector told the commission that a request had been submitted to govt seeking approval to deploy a dredger owned by Adani Port for the dredging work.

The commission took up the issue suo motu following a series of accidents at Muthalapozhi. Authorities earlier informed the commission that steps were being taken to remove sand deposits at the estuary and construct a breakwater. However, the commission observed that even 50% of the work had not been completed despite the contract period nearing its end.

According to officials, the contract provides for the construction of a 420m breakwater over a period of one and a half years. However, only 200m have been completed within the first year. Harbour engineering executive engineer informed the commission that the extension of the breakwater has been suspended due to the commencement of the monsoon season.

The hearing was held at state minority commission headquarters in Sasthamangalam, where commission chairperson A A Rasheed considered petitions.