Kerala: Panchayats to step up security in small ferries

KOCHI: In view of the Puthanvelikara ferry accident, various panchayat committees, in consultation with the Department of Ports, have decided to step up safety measures in small ferries. It has been decided not to allow four-wheelers on small ferries. The panchayat authorities concerned will also ensure that ferry operators comply with safety norms.

The Puthanvelikara panchayat will convene a meeting of contractors on Monday to discuss immediate measures to be taken to make the service safe. As the construction of bridge is underway at Station Kadavu by the Roads and Bridges Corporation Kerala, the panchayat authorities will seek its support to develop the temporary jetties near the construction site.

Meanwhile, residents are up in arms against the lackadaisical approach of the authorities even after the tragedy. “The ferry services are being operated in a most careless manner without any safety mechanism. Inexperienced migrant labourers who have no idea on the depth or under currents of the river are employed as workers. With no handrails or safety fencing, these small ferries carry big four-wheelers in a precarious manner," said Shajan M.P, social activist and former panchayat member, Puthanvelikara.  

Many of the panchayats near North Paravur like Chendamangalam, Puthanvelikara and Ezhikara are given contracts for small ferries and passenger boats which are being dependent by hundreds of regular passengers including school children. As per the contract agreement between panchayat and the private contractor, only passengers and two-wheelers are allowed in most of these ferries.