The Kozhikode Corporation Council on Saturday (December 21), unanimously decided to take strict action against the rampant encroachment on the Kottooli wetlands in the heart of the city, citing their ecological significance. The decision comes against the backdrop of the recent incidents at Vazhathuruthi.
The council also unanimously decided to appeal to the authorities concerned to relocate the Hindustan Petroleum (HP) Depot at Elathur to a safer location. The motion came in the backdrop of the recent incident in which thousands of litres of diesel leaked from the depot through the drains to reach the sea. The council noted that the consequences would have been more severe had petrol leaked and criticised depot authorities for their lack of urgency in addressing the situation, despite repeated leaks and minor fires in the past.
Earlier, the council made a strategic decision to seek the help of the police in controlling the rising crime rate around Kozhikode Beach. IUML Councillor K. Moideen Koya also raised concerns about groups of youngsters gathering at the beach past midnight, urging caution. However, he faced criticism from ruling front councillors, who argued that his comments suggested the growing nightlife was problematic. They attributed such disturbances to drug abuse rather than nightlife itself. Mayor Beena Philip said that the council will enquire about the situation and take necessary action.
A similar discussion followed regarding a proposal to impose time restrictions on wayside eateries along the Vellimadukunnu-Kovoor road, which residents claim cause nighttime disturbances.
The council also discussed the issue of unauthorised hoardings in the city and the destruction of trees on the beach allegedly by anti-social elements.
Published – December 21, 2024 09:51 pm IST