THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A decision has been taken to entrust a special committee to study the impacts on coasts and others in the context of construction of Vizhinjam port. A representative of the protesting panel will be included in the panel. The decision was taken in a discussion held by the representatives of the striking panel representatives with sub-committee members Fisheries Minister V Abdurahman and Transport Minister Antony Raju.

The ministers assured that the demands raised by the striking panel would be considered sympathetically. Steps are in progress to resolve five of the seven demands of the protesters. As per the rent and rehabilitation process, the amount will be allotted to all the people staying in the camps. Fisheries Minister has informed that the construction of flats will be started as soon as possible on the eight acres acquired in Muttathara in connection with the rehabilitation.

Action will be taken on receipt of the report of the director of fisheries on the issue of compensation for loss of employment due to weather crisis. A discussion will be held with the port secretary to resolve the uncertainties related to the ship channel. The representatives of the striking panel strongly demanded that the port construction be stopped and a study be conducted, but the ministers clarified that no action can be taken in this regard pending the court verdict. The ministers informed that the study of the special committee will also include the issue of accidents due to sand intrusion at the Vizhinjam fishing port. The striking panel participated in the discussion under the leadership of Vicar General Eugene Perera.