Potholes in NH: If politics are put aside, discussions can be held, Minister Riyas can come to my office at any time, says V Muraleedharan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Union Minister V Muraleedharan has said that if politics are put aside, discussions can be held on road development issues in the state and Minister PA Muhammad Riyas can come to his office at any time for discussions. He was speaking to the media in Thiruvananthapuram.

"The Centre is ruled by a government that more consideration for national highway development in Kerala than previous governments. More fund has been allocated to the state for road development when compared to previous years. The centre is ready to discuss and resolve any deficiencies in the development of national highways. The argument of the negative attitude of the National Highways Authority cannot be accepted", he said.

"The Minister added that if Riyas believes that the contractors are fully responsible for the potholes on the national highway, they should file a complaint with the Center and there will be intervention in the matter", he said.

Soon after, Minister Muhammad Riyas dismissed Muraleedharan. He said that despite discussing these matters directly with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and several times with the officials, no action was taken.