07-05-2025
Cabinet clears compensation for families along Parvathy Puthanar
Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant step for the West Coast Canal development project ( Kovalam-Bekal waterway ), the state cabinet has approved the valuation of homes belonging to families living on govt land (puramboke) along the Kovalam–Akkulam stretch. The move ensures fair compensation for those who lack legal land ownership but have built homes over the years along the Parvathy Puthanar Canal .These families, often residing with limited resources and without title deeds, had raised concerns about compensation and relocation benefits. The cabinet's decision to recognise the value of their structures brings relief to many facing displacement due to the waterway K Jacob, director of the inland navigation department, confirmed that valuation approval has been granted for 68 such homeowners. Each family will receive compensation for their building structures in addition to a fixed amount of Rs 11 lakh. "The proceedings are progressing swiftly. While land acquisition in the Kovalam–Akkulam stretch is still lagging, acquisition from Akkulam to Varkala is nearly complete. We hope to open the Akkulam–Chettuva (Thrissur) stretch by July," he project has faced delays due to legal hurdles involving 474 families without proper land records. Despite earlier promises to complete compensation by March 31, only 289 families have received payments so far. The remaining acquisitions are now expected to be completed by development involves widening the canal to 25 meters, with a five-meter service road on both sides for improved navigation and maintenance. The Coastal Shipping and Inland Navigation Department, along with Kerala Waterways and Infrastructure Limited (KWIL), is implementing the project under a special-purpose vehicle that includes Cochin International Airport Ltd and the state initiative aims to revitalise Parvathy Puthanar, improve inland water transport, and strengthen regional connectivity.
