Chellanam Seawall Construction Phase Two

Summary of Key Points:

Project Overview:

• Chellanam Seawall Project: Aimed at protecting the unprotected coastline of Chellanam panchayat through a tetrapod-based seawall construction.

Phases and Costs:

• Phase Two: Involves a 6.10-km stretch from Puthenthode to Manassery with an estimated cost of ₹404 crore, funded by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB).
• Phase One: Covered a 7.3-km stretch from Chellanam to Puthenthode at a cost of ₹347 crore, also funded under KIIFB.

Project Timeline and Execution:

• The second phase was inaugurated by former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on March 7, 2026. However, the execution faced delays due to the model code of conduct being enforced during elections, hindering project agreements and awaiting technical sanctions.

Community Engagement:

• The Chellanam-Kochi Janakeeya Vedhi has been actively protesting for the seawall's construction for over 2,409 days, emphasizing the urgency of the project in light of impending monsoon conditions.

Government Response:

• Mohammed Shiyas, MLA, called for immediate action to remove existing hurdles, urging the formulation of a new project for beautification and protection from sea incursion.
• District Collector G. Priyanka reported the ongoing deployment of geobags as a temporary solution to prevent sea encroachment.

Impact on Residents:

• Many affected families, encouraged by the ongoing projects, returned to repair their homes previously damaged by sea incursions, utilizing resources they had acquired with great difficulty.

Relevant Legal and Administrative Context:

• Laws and Policies: The project is operating under the purview of Kerala's infrastructure development initiatives, particularly the KIIFB which supports large-scale public utility projects.

This project highlights the intersection of environmental protection, community rights, and administrative processes in addressing coastal protection and resilience against climate change impacts.