Kerala's ₹306-Crore Push to Protect Coastline

The Kerala government has approved the ₹306-crore second phase of the Chellanam tetrapod seawall project, aimed at safeguarding the coastline from severe sea erosion. This phase will cover the remaining 3.6 km stretch between Puthenthode and Cheriyakkadavu in Ernakulam district, completing the original plan outlined in the first phase.

The first phase, completed in 2023 at a cost of ₹347 crore, protected 7.3 km of shoreline but fell short of reaching Cheriyakkadavu due to revised cost estimates and technical recommendations from IIT. The decision to proceed with Phase II was taken at a high-level meeting attended by Ministers P. Rajeeve, Roshy Augustine, and Saji Cherian.

The second phase will be implemented under the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) scheme, with renewed administrative sanction expected soon.

Minister Rajeeve highlighted the state's substantial financial commitment—approximately ₹100 crore per km—while also pointing out the lack of central government support in addressing coastal erosion challenges. Chellanam is one of 10 critical erosion hotspots identified by the Irrigation Department.

He credited the Chief Minister and senior officials for accelerating the project and assured that the remaining construction would be completed urgently. Also present at the meeting were Additional Chief Secretary Biswanath Sinha, KIIFB Additional CEO Mini Antony, and MLA K.J. Maxy.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.