THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Minister of Ports, Ahamed Devarkovil, said that efforts are on to bring ships to Vizhinjam at the appointed time. He was speaking to the media after a review meeting.

The minister said that the government has decided to go forward with the project after discussions with the contract company about the amount of money that they lost due to the protests.

Ahamed Devarkovil said that most of the demands of the protesters have been considered and met by the state government. If more actions are needed by the protesters, then the government is willing for a discussion with them. The Cabinet has appointed a sub-committee to meet with protesters for discussions.

The contract company has agreed to bring more laborers and machinery to make up for the days lost due to the protests. In addition, the share of the Central Government in the Viability Gap Fund will be allowed. The Port Department is instructed to initiate the procedures for that. The steps to provide the share of the State Government will also be done without delay.

He assured that the contract company has given a guarantee to bring projects that will provide jobs for local residents. Also, the development of the port road, which will link the port to the national highway, will be completed on time.

Devarkovil pointed out that the Central Government’s aim is to bring under control the use of Kerosene-run boats for fishing. Therefore, the state government has decided to give financial help to fishermen to buy boats that use fuels other than Kerosene.