No check on sea erosion yet

KOZHIKODE: Even after the fury of summer rains have subsided in the district, people living in the coastal areas are under the threat of coastal erosion.

The sea continues to be rough in the coastal areas of the district, especially in areas like Kadalundi, Elathur and Kothi. Several houses were damaged and two persons even got injured when huge waves pounded their houses at Kothi Beach a couple of days back. Several families have been shifted to rescue camps, anticipating further coastal erosion.

However, many families who had been shifted to temporary shelters in Kothi Beach have come back to their houses on Tuesday as the government failed to announce compensation for the families who had suffered losses. Many families continue to stay at their houses despite repeated warnings issued about possible sea erosion. People say they cannot move out leaving all their lives’ earnings back.

“We have sent a report regarding the losses that happened at Kothi and other areas seeking compensation. The amount will be cleared and will be distributed to the families soon,” District Colllector N Prasanth told Deccan Chronicle.

Residents also complain about unscientific seawall construction as a reason for the increasing incidence of coastal erosion. Members of the Shastra Sahitya Parishad, who had visited Kothi Beach, said that putting granite blocks in the sea could not prevent coastal erosion.

They said that the government should focus on nurturing organic obstruction by planting sea plants and mangroves. Around 45 families in Kothi Beach are still living in fear.

Even tourist spots like Kappad have been badly hit as the sea has invaded much deeper, even uprooting  trees on the beach.