Thiruvananthapuram administration takes steps to check sea erosion

Thiruvananthapuram: Since floods are likely with the rains lashing the city, the district administration has identified buildings for temporary relief camps. Sheeba George, Deputy Collector in charge of Disaster Management, says, "Measures have been taken to respond to the sea erosion in Valiyathura. In other places, buildings where people can be shifted in case of a contingency have been identified."

Since there is no flood at present, she said that the administration has been focusing on Valiyathura. In every village which is by the coast, officials have been given instructions to identify schools and colleges. "In Valyathura, since the school has reopened, we have been asked to look for other community centres, where people can be shifted," said Sheeba.

Earlier, district Collector Biju Prabhakar had issued instructions to construct drains by the side of the roads in areas inundated by high waves. While visiting Adimalathura, Cheriyathura, Pallam, Pulluvila, Puthiyathura, Kochuthura, Kanjiramkulam and Malinamkulam, he had instructed officials to ensure that percolation pits and ponds were constructed.

This was to ensure that there was no waterlogging. Culverts were to be constructed and roads cut to ensure that there was no stagnant water. Now that the monsoon has started, the work has not been going on. Elsewhere in the city, Operation Anantha, which should have cleared stormwater drainages has also nearly stopped.