Adani group halts construction of Vizhinjam port, minister terms protesters as ‘outsiders’

Thiruvananthapuram: Adani Ports authority has informed that they are temporarily halting the construction of Vizhinjam port in the wake of the protest staged by fisherfolk. The construction activities were stopped after the protest interrupted the transportation of materials to the site.

The fisherfolk have been staging the protest alleging that the unscientific construction of groynes, the artificial sea walls known as "pulimutt' in local parlance, as part of the upcoming Vizhinjam port was one of the reasons for the increasing coastal erosion in the district. On Tuesday, they intensified the protest and blocked the main road to the port site.
The Latin Catholic Archdiocese leadership informed that the protest will continue till August end.

The protesters reached the port site as two vehicle rallies. Fisherfolk from Pozhiyoor area reached here on Tuesday to take part in the protest. More people from other parishes are expected to join the protest in the coming days.

Adani Ports officials informed that they are halting the construction works for Tuesday and the issues will be brought to the attention of the state government. People including the priests of the archdiocese arrived at the port to confirm whether the Adani group issued a false statement.

Meanwhile, Ahamed Devarkovil, minister for ports criticised the protesters. He alleged that people from outside the district are protesting in Vizhinjam.

“ The government has taken initiative for a big rehabilitation project. If anyone has doubts about it, the government is ready to hold talks with them,” said the minister.

The fisherfolk have been demanding to halt the port construction and conduct a scientific study on coastal erosion. They alleged that the government didn’t invite them for any talks over the protest.

The protesters also demanded the government ensure rehabilitation of those who lost houses in the sea attack, provide compensation to fisherfolk who lost houses and property and distribute kerosene at affordable rate.