An independent study conducted by experts has accused the Left government of Kerala of suppressing popular opposition to the Vizhinjam seaport being built by the Adani group and proceeding with the project that has caused extensive coastal erosion and destruction of entire fishing villages.
“Regrettably, even a government in Kerala, despite its pro-working class image has suppressed opposition to the port by labelling it ‘anti-development’ and ‘anti-national’. This highlights a fundamental lack of understanding among our administrators and political leaders regarding coastal processes and a tendency to disregard scientific perspectives,” the study titled Our Beaches, Our Seas pointed out.
Historian and social scientist Ramachandra Guha released the study conducted by experts who are part of the Janakeeya Padana Samithi (people’s research commission) in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday.
The research commission was formed by the Vizhinjam Samara Samithi (protest committee) that has been spearheading the movement against the Rs 7,525-crore seaport being built under a public-private partnership between the Kerala government and Adani Vizhinjam Port Pvt Ltd (AVPPL).
Guha lauded the expert committee. “As someone who has been a social scientist working on different aspects of India’s social, economic and ecological situations for the past 40 years, I have had the opportunity to closely study hundreds of reports. But may I say that the report commissioned and put together by the people’s commission, few universities can conduct such a rigorous study, and of course, no government department. So it is really very comprehensive and impressive pieces of research,” he said.
The study recommended balancing Vizhinjam’s heritage, fishing communities and development. “It is recommended that any further development in the Vizhinjam area should consider sustainable practices that allow the fishing communities to continue their traditional livelihoods while ensuring the protection of the region’s historical and ecological assets,” it said.
The study sought equitable compensation, proper rehabilitation, safety measures for fishermen, modernising the fishing harbour, and engaging the local community, especially women, as part of the rehabilitation of the displaced residents.
The expert panel had Dr John Kurien, former professor, Centre for Development Studies, Thiruvananthapuram; Dr K.G. Thara, former member secretary of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority; Dr Terry Machado, former scientist; Probir Chatterjee, president, Pondy CAN, Pondicherry; Dr Sarita Fernandes, managing trustee, Ocean, Coastal and Ecological Alliance Network, Goa; and Dr John Jament, research fellow, University of Sussex.
