THRISSUR: Former MP Suresh Gopi patiently listened to all the problems faced by autoworkers in Thrissur city on Sunday. It was during the 'SJ's Coffee Times program organized at Naduvilal, that Suresh Gopi learned about the miseries alerting auto drivers. The drivers also requested Suresh Gopi to take necessary actions to help them lead a stress-free life. At one time, politics crept into the talk which Suresh Gopi dismissed immediately with a stern ‘NO’.

The drivers presented many problems such as traffic jams in the city, narrow and poor condition of roads, and congestion on Puzhakkal road. Suresh Gopi said that urban development should always be made for posterity, like considering the vision of 50 years ahead.

A clear master plan is needed. The development of roads and drainage in the city was discussed with the mayor. The matter will be considered on a priority basis if the opportunity arises. Suresh Gopi termed Mannuthy-Choondal Elevated Path as his dream project. He said this road will solve the congestion in the city to some extent. The drivers pointed out that many lives were lost in road accidents due to the lack of government hospitals with emergency departments on the Kodungallur-Thrissur road.

Suresh Gopi said that 50 lakhs was allocated from the MP fund to the hospital in Avinissery. But sadly, no real progress has happened since.

“The state government says that the amount is not enough. Now that I am not an MP, where will I find money to pay for these?” Suresh Gopi said that such a public relations program is organized to know the common needs of the people. BJP District President K.K. Anish Kumar presided.