THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With the construction of the Vizhinjam port getting stalled due to the strike called by a section of people, the investors are suffering a daily loss of Rs 2 crores. After 53 days of the strike, Rs 106 crore was lost as interest alone.

These are the figures presented by the Adani Group in a direct meeting with Ports Minister Ahamed Devarkovil. If the strike continues, the port cannot be commissioned next year. The Adani Group informed that it is unable to deliver stones for construction. Barges and tugs bound for Vizhinjam are remaining stranded on the coasts, including Kollam.

The minister informed the Adani Group that he will take an urgent decision after consulting the law department. The discussion may take place as soon as Chief Minister and Law Minister P Rajeeve return from the foreign tour.

Adani Vizhinjam Port Managing Director and CEO Rajesh Jha told Kerala Kaumudi that work has been halted since August 16 due to the strike. He also said that many locals are losing jobs because of this.

"500 workers used to work in the construction. Job opportunities will increase with each phase of the port getting completed. 1,000 people will get direct employment in the first phase. Many more people will be jobs in the coming phases. We are giving priority to locals in this. The first berth can be completed within 350 days if the strike comes to an end now. With the government accepting all major demands, we urge the protesters to stop the strike and cooperate to make the port a reality for the development of Kerala," the CEO said.

200 days from mid-September is the best time for offshore construction work. A lot of action remains to be done on land as well.

There is a strong allegation that international lobbies are plotting against the Vizhinjam port. Considering the new situation in Sri Lanka, Vizhinjam port is sure to get a big boost. Local residents also want the government to take the initiative to resume construction work.

Construction supervised by National Green Tribunal

Seventeen experts from two committees appointed by the National Green Tribunal review the construction work every six months. This is the only project where construction is under the direct supervision of the Tribunal. A study published by local resident Clement Lopez under the supervision of Kerala University's Future Studies Department details that port construction has not influenced coastal erosion in any way. There is a five percent increase in fish production in the region between 2011 and 2022.