Will keep moving ahead on path of development for Kozhikode: MK Raghavan

M K Raghavan who has won from the Kozhikode Lok Sabha seat for the fourth consecutive time promises the continuation of his developmental efforts for the constituency. Development is the main agenda for the next five years, he says. Raghavan also promised to continue the efforts to make AIIMS here a reality. 

Excerpts from the interview with Mathrubhumi’s A K Sreejith

This fourth victory was a great one. What is the secret of such an acceptance?

Anyone can approach me at any time. I do not consider the party or affiliation of those that come to me for help. People know that. They are returning this love and affection during elections. People also know all that has been done for Kozhikode. This was reflected in the polls.

What is the agenda for the next five years?

I will work for the development of the airport and Beypore Port. Efforts will continue to make AIIMS a reality. Another 100 acres of land needs to be acquired for the airport development. The efforts in this regard will continue. 

What do you plan to do about Beypore port and the railway station?

Development of Beypore Port is important. How it can be developed will be discussed. The State Government is considering unloading the port. The importance of the port is declining. Everything, including cargo, is going to Mangalore. Although Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced a four-lane road connecting the port with the national highway in the Sagarmala project, the State  Government has not taken any steps in this regard. Let’s see what can be done in this regard. The development works at the Kozhikode railway station is going on. I will intervene to speed it up.

What more is to be done about AIIMS?

To make AIIMS a reality, everyone, including the State Government, needs to work together as one. Rs 120 Crore of Central assistance was obtained as part of the PMSSY Project for the Kozhikode Medical College. Similar activities will continue in connection with the medical college and the Health sector.

Did any difficulties faced by the people come to your notice during the election campaign?

The Agricultural sector is in great difficulty. Fair price is not made available for agricultural products. Issues in the copra procurement and others are troubling the coconut farmers. There is no effective intervention from the government in this regard. Similarly in the the Dairy sector as well, farmers are facing various problems. Interventions will be made to help them. Plans for effective marketing of value-added products are also underway.