Kerala Chief Minister Inaugurates Chellanam Coastal Protection Project Phase 2
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan declared that 'Nava Kerala' is not merely a conceptual idea but a tangible reality that can be realized when development permeates every region and every individual experiences its advantages. He made this statement during the completion ceremony of Phase 1 and the inauguration of Phase 2 of the Chellanam tetrapod coastal protection project in Kochi.
Transforming Chellanam from Erosion Hotspot to Protected Coastline
The government is committed to actualizing the Nava Kerala vision through a multitude of strategic initiatives. Chellanam, once a severe hotspot for coastal erosion, has been prioritized for intervention. To combat this, authorities decided to erect a 6.1-meter-high sea wall utilizing advanced tetrapod technology, a long-standing demand from the local residents.
Phase 1 of this ambitious project involved:
- Construction of a 7.3-kilometer sea wall
- Installation of six breakwaters
- Development of a 6.64-kilometer walkway
- Utilization of eight lakh metric tonnes of stone and 1.5 lakh tetrapods
This phase incurred a cost of Rs 347 crore, demonstrating significant investment in coastal infrastructure.
Phase 2 Expansion and Enhanced Protection Measures
Phase 2 focuses on safeguarding an additional 6.1-kilometer stretch from Puthenthode to Manaserry Fishing Gap. This extension will employ over 1 lakh tetrapods to fortify the coastline, with an allocated budget of Rs 404 crore. The comprehensive project is anticipated to substantially reduce coastal erosion and provide much-needed relief to the local community, particularly fishermen.
Government's Commitment to Inclusive Development and Welfare
Chief Minister Vijayan underscored the administration's dedication to the safety and welfare of fishermen, highlighting the implementation of schemes like 'Punargaham' for their rehabilitation. He emphasized that development must reach every section of society, citing examples such as the Perumbalam bridge and another bridge connecting a tribal hamlet in Thiruvananthapuram as evidence of this inclusive approach.
The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including Ministers Roshy Augustine and P Rajeeve, K J Maxi (MLA), former MP K V Thomas, and Bishop Antony Kattipparambil, among others, reflecting broad support for the project.
