Complexities haunting Muthalappozhi

The Muthalappozhi estuary in Thiruvananthapuram has become a serious problem for fishermen. From 2016 to 2024, 46 fishermen died because sand built up in the estuary, causing boats to capsize and sink. Fishermen’s groups and local people have protested many times and continue to do so. Recently, in a meeting with Minister Saji Cherian, it was decided to remove the sand quickly and move it to the northern part of the port. Work to cut the sandbar will start soon. However, protest leaders say the government’s actions are too late and that these steps should have been taken months ago.

The minister told the media that sand removal will speed up and new technology will be used. The protest committee’s main complaint is that the current dredgers are not good enough. The government plans to bring dredgers from the Kerala Maritime Board. The minister also said dredging hours will increase from 10 to 20 hours a day. Protesters also demand compensation because fishermen cannot work and are starving due to the silt blocking the estuary. They want the government to show sympathy and help.

The sand buildup in Muthalappozhi could cause flooding in nearby panchayats like Vakkom, Chirayinkeezhu, Kadakkavoor, Anchuthengu, and Azhoor. If the silt is not removed, these areas may be flooded. So, not removing the silt is dangerous. The Executive Engineer of the Harbor Engineering Division said the sand will be fully removed by May 15. He promised fishermen could go to sea within a week, but fishermen remain skeptical because of past experiences.

There is a large demand for sand for building the National Highway and other projects. It should be checked if the sand dredged from Muthalappozhi can be used for this. A proposal has been sent to give this sand to Kerala Minerals Development Corporation, but no decision has been made yet. To solve the Muthalappozhi problem permanently, the embankment must be extended. The contract for this work has not been signed yet. The government needs to award the contract soon. Once the contract is given, it will take about a year and a half to finish the work. Experts say the Muthalappozhi issue could be resolved by 2027.