Residents seek urgent measures to protect Iruvanjippuzha, Cherupuzha riverbanks
Riverbank erosion along the Iruvanjippuzha and Cherupuzha rivers has emerged as a major concern in Kozhikode district, with several houses, agricultural lands and public infrastructure
Riverbank erosion along the Iruvanjippuzha and Cherupuzha rivers has emerged as a major concern in Kozhikode district, with several houses, agricultural lands and public infrastructure in Karassery and Kodiyathur grama panchayats facing an increasing threat during the monsoon. Residents said large stretches of farmland were being washed away every year as the rivers swell during the rainy season, causing heavy financial losses to farmers.
They alleged that repeated promises by the authorities to strengthen vulnerable stretches of the riverbanks had not translated into lasting protection measures. Several houses located close to the riverbanks have also been left in a precarious condition, with the rivers steadily eating away private land over the years. Many families said they now live in constant fear of further erosion whenever heavy rain occurs.
People in the affected areas said they had been seeking permanent riverbank protection works for more than a decade. They also expressed concern that several drinking water project tanks situated along the riverbanks were vulnerable to erosion, posing a risk to public infrastructure. According to Mohammed Kakkad, a resident and activist, the banks of the two rivers need urgent protection.
“Riverbank erosion is posing a serious threat to houses and agricultural land. Although retaining walls have been built at a few locations, long stretches remain unprotected. If timely action is not taken, houses could be lost to the rivers. The authorities should implement comprehensive riverbank protection measures without further delay,” Mr. Kakkad said.
The BriefWire