The Kozhikode Corporation Council on Saturday (December 21) decided to take strict action against widespread encroachment, citing the ecological importance of the Kottuli wetlands in the heart of the city. The decision comes in the backdrop of the recent events in Vajathuruthy.
The meeting also decided to request the relevant authorities to shift the Hindustan Petroleum (HP) depot located in Elathur to a safe place. This proposal has come in the background of the recent incident of thousands of liters of diesel from the depot leaking into the sea. Despite frequent leaks and small fires in the past, the council noted that the consequences would be more serious if there was a petrol leak and criticized the depot authorities for not acting promptly to address the situation.
Earlier, the council had taken a strategic decision to enlist the help of the police to control the rising crime rate around Kozhikode Beach. IUML Councilor K. Moideen Koya also expressed concern about groups of young people gathering on the beach in the middle of the night and urged caution. However, he faced criticism from ruling Front councillors, who argued that his comments were problematic for the growing nightlife. They attributed such disturbances to drug abuse rather than nightlife. Mayor Bina Philip said that the council will investigate the incident and take necessary action.
A similar discussion took place regarding the proposal to impose timing restrictions on eateries along the Vellimadukunnu-Kovor road, which residents claim is due to night disturbances.
The council also discussed the issue of unauthorized hoardings in the city and destruction of trees placed on the beach by anti-social elements.
published – Dec 21, 2024 09:51 pm IST