The Hindu Business Line : Kerala Govt allots Rs 498 cr for coastal conservation

Thiruvananthapuram, July 16 The Kerala Government has undertaken schemes worth Rs 497.68 crore for conservation of coastal regions, said the Revenue Minister, Mr K.P. Rajendran.

Replying to a calling attention motion in the State Assembly on Monday, the Minister said that 352 villages in nine tsunami-hit districts would stand to benefit from the implementation of these schemes.

A sum of Rs 120 crore has been allocated for construction of seawalls along vulnerable stretches, while Rs 284 crore has been earmarked for general rehabilitation programmes.

A sum of Rs 93.68 crore will be allotted for social forestry schemes, conservation of estuaries and conduct of training programmes on conserving natural wealth along the shorelines.

Other major heads that attract specific allocations are: Rs 163 crore for sustaining fisheries-based living; Rs 92.5 crore for rebuilding of coastal roads; and Rs 132 crore for ramping up drinking water supply.

A separate Rs 100-crore scheme has been envisaged for the tsunami-ravaged belt of Alappad, Arattupuzha, Andhakaranazhi and Edavanakad along the coast, spread over Kollam and Ernakulam districts.

HELMET DEATHS

At least 10 two-wheeler riders wearing helmets have died in recent road accidents after the Government notified rules enforcing the use of the head-protective gear in the State, Mr Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Home and Tourism, informed the House.