The Kerala High Court has sought a detailed response from authorities on a Public Interest Litigation highlighting severe coastal erosion and inadequate seawall infrastructure in Nayarambalam and Njarakkal areas of Vypin Island, Ernakulam. The Court directed the Irrigation Department to file a report addressing the grievances raised by residents, while also asking local panchayats to place their affidavits on record.
The PIL, filed by local residents, raises concerns over recurring ‘sea attacks’ and flooding during monsoon seasons, which have led to large-scale displacement and damage to life and property. The petitioners emphasised that despite repeated representations, authorities have failed to undertake permanent measures to strengthen or maintain the seawall along the vulnerable coastal stretch.
Highlighting that approximately 3 km of coastline in Nayarambalam and 1 km in Njarakkal remain exposed, the petition highlighted the urgent need for constructing robust seawalls using tetrapods, a method claimed to be scientifically proven in mitigating erosion and wave impact. The plea notes that similar measures have been successfully implemented in nearby coastal areas like Chellanam.
The petition further invokes the right to life under Article 21, arguing that continued inaction by authorities in safeguarding coastal communities violates fundamental rights. It also points to the socio-economic vulnerability of residents, many of whom are fishermen forced to evacuate homes and seek temporary shelter during monsoons.
Posting the matter for further hearing, the Court has now called for accountability and concrete steps from the State and relevant agencies to address the impending threat ahead of the monsoon season.
Appearances:
For the Petitioners: Mr. Akhil K. Madhav, Mr. T.R. Jerry Sebastian, Ms. Archana Suresh, Ms. Vironica Vincy P.B., Advocates
For the Respondents: Mr. Navaneeth N. Nath, CGC; Mr. Varghese K. Paul, Advocate
