[Reader-list] Diversion of tsunami funds alleged

[T Peter]

Diversion of tsunami funds alleged

Special Correspondent
http://www.hindu.com/2008/03/21/stories/2008032157260400.htm

Kerala Swathantra Matsya Thozhilali Federation flays 'Ente Theeram' project
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Says majority of the projects are at places hardly affected by the tsunami

Says artificial reef at Kovalam will affect the livelihood of 500 people
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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Swathantra Matsya Thozhilali Federation
(KSMTF) has flayed the State government for utilising funds from the
Tsunami Rehabilitation Programme to promote tourism development.

Referring to Tourism Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan's statement made
during the inauguration of the 'Ente Theeram' project at Veli here on
Monday, KSMTF president T. Peter said the government was guilty of
diverting funds meant for the upliftment of coastal communities.

Rationale questioned

"How can the construction of walkways and improvement of tourism
infrastructure be termed as coastal protection? How will it benefit the
coastal communities affected by tsunami? This is just old wine in new
bottle.

The Minister had said earlier that tsunami funds would be used for the
beautification of beaches as part of a package of 22 coastal projects.
After protests from the coastal communities, now they are doing the same
thing in the name of coastal protection," he said.

"The majority of the projects are in locations that were hardly affected
by the tsunami. According to the guidelines issued by the Central Planning
Commission, TRP funds can be used only for rehabilitation of damaged
sites.

"The Tourism department should come out with the extent of damage caused
by the tsunami in the 20 selected project sites. The details of the
projects need to be brought before the public and debated," Mr. Peter
said.

He reiterated the stand that the proposed construction of a 500-metre long
artificial reef at Kovalam for water skiing, surfing and swimming would
affect the livelihood of the fishing community in the area.

"Community based shore–seine fishing in the area will be curtailed and at
least 500 people will lose their livelihood options. The fish breeding
ground will be used for 'sport fishing' by tourists and will be of little
use to the local fish workers. They are still planning to go ahead with
the project."

Study sought

Mr. Peter called for a detailed study to assess the impact of the
artificial reef on the neighbouring villages such as Vizhinjam and
Poonthura.

Diverting Rs.84.11 crore earmarked for rehabilitation of tsunami-affected
people will detract from the government's bid to promote Kerala as a
Responsible Tourism destination, he added.

http://www.keralafishworkers.org
http://www.alakal.net