Unscientific Beach Construction Erodes Shores

Friends of Marine Life (FML), a non-governmental organization, has called for the removal of unscientific construction at Shanghumugham beach. The NGO alleges that the beautification and coastal protection project is actively harming the coastline, contrary to its intended purpose.

Robert Panipilla of FML stated that the construction is likely to damage the shores of adjacent villages like Kannanthura and Vettukadu. Already, rough monsoon seas have swept away stones and sand from the site, leaving metal rods exposed. This occurred despite the monsoon having only recently begun.

Panipilla criticized the government's reliance on concrete structures for coastal defense, citing the failed Valiyathura bridge project as a precedent. He argued that such rigid constructions cannot withstand the sea's force and have historically led to coastal erosion and property loss.

The project is also expected to negatively impact shore-seine fishermen in Shanghumugham and residents of Kannanthura and Vettukadu, potentially eliminating traditional community fishing activities.