WATCH: Ernakulam Fishermen Stage Protest Over River Erosion

The residents of Edavanakkad have been witnessing the steady erosion of the river, which has already led to significant land loss and increased vulnerability of their homes to further damage.

This protest comes at a time when similar concerns are being echoed across Kerala. ( Image Source :X/@ANI )

Fishermen in Edavanakkad staged a demonstration on Friday to raise awareness about the severe river erosion threatening their homes and livelihoods. The protest highlighted the urgent need for effective measures to address the ongoing issue, which has been exacerbated by the monsoon season.

According to ANI, fishermen in Edavanakkad, Ernakulam stage a demonstration over river erosion affecting their home.

#WATCH | Kerala: Fishermen in Edavanakkad, Ernakulam stage a demonstration over river erosion affecting their home. pic.twitter.com/fmvzSajQzg

— ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2024

 

The residents of Edavanakkad have been witnessing the steady erosion of the river, which has already led to significant land loss and increased vulnerability of their homes to further damage.

This protest comes at a time when similar concerns are being echoed across Kerala. In Kozhikode, residents living near the Kuttiyadi river and its tributaries were facing intensified fears of riverbank erosion. The lack of sufficient protective retaining walls has left these communities exposed, with the monsoon rains worsening the situation.

Earlier, local panchayats worked on maintenance projects to mitigate such issues, often employing labourers through the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. For instance, in 2020, cleaning activities began in six out of 40 small canals in Njarakkal, and maintenance work on 22 canals were underway in Nayarambalam. Several year back, Edavanakkad panchayat had also initiated maintenance work on major drainages and canals in selected wards.