Minority panel calls for fin aid

T'puram: Kerala state minority commission called for financial assistance to be provided to the families of fishermen who lost their lives in a series of accidents at Muthalapozhi harbour, stressing the need for urgent relief and long-term safety measures.A sitting of minority panel was held at commission's court hall in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, where chairman A A Rasheed considered various petitions. During the proceedings, panel also took up a suo motu case in connection with repeated accidents reported at Muthalapozhi.
Chief engineer of harbour engineering department informed the panel that dredging works to remove sand accumulated at harbour mouth and channel are progressing rapidly. He said nearly 60% of dredging work was completed and assured that the remaining work would be finished by the end of this month. A report submitted by Coastal police chief stated that there are currently no dangerous conditions at the harbour mouth and recommended that dredging be completed before the onset of monsoon to make area fully safe. Following this, the panel directed district administration to convene an urgent meeting of officials concerned and take all necessary steps to ensure the timely completion of the works. Meanwhile, director of fisheries informed the commission that the proposal to provide financial assistance to fishermen who were killed or injured in the accidents is under consideration by the disaster management department. The commission also noted that complaints can be submitted through WhatsApp at 9746515133.