Thiruvananthapuram: A demolition drive against allegedly illegal constructions at Varkala's north cliff was suspended on Thursday after a hotel owner attempted suicide in protest, sparking tension and demonstrations by traders and property owners.
The Varkala Municipality, backed by a large police contingent, had launched the operation to remove 63 structures identified as illegal, following studies linking unchecked construction and environmental degradation to recurring landslides along the cliff overlooking Papanasam Beach.
Municipal officials and police arrived at north cliff around 9am and began demolition using earthmovers. Tight security was in place anticipating resistance from affected building owners and traders.
The situation turned tense when Niyaz, who runs a hotel in one of the buildings marked for demolition, allegedly poured kerosene over himself and threatened to end his life. Police intervened in time, prevented the attempt and took him into custody.
The incident triggered protests by traders and local residents, forcing authorities to halt the demolition temporarily.
Varkala MLA V Joy later reached the site and held discussions with district officials, following which the drive was suspended pending further consultations.
“Protection of the environment and safeguarding people's livelihoods are equally important. We cannot ignore either of them,” Joy said, adding that the issue should be resolved through discussions involving all stakeholders.
He announced that the additional district magistrate would chair a meeting at the Varkala taluk office on Friday to hear the concerns of affected residents, traders and building owners. The district collector will take a final call on further action based on the outcome.
The demolition drive stems from growing concerns over landslides and soil erosion along the cliff. A study by the Varkala Infrastructure Development Corporation reportedly warned that urgent steps were needed to protect the fragile ecosystem of Papanasam Cliff, cautioning that continued degradation could erode sections of the internationally known cliff and hurt tourism.
Officials said inspections found that excessive construction, along with the alleged discharge of sewage from resorts and hotels into the foothills, had contributed to environmental degradation and slope instability.
Based on these findings, 63 illegal constructions were identified, and the district collector ordered their removal in 2023. While some property owners later challenged the eviction in court, officials said the demolition order remains in force.
