Summary:
By Express News ServiceTHIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Despite the launch of KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) -funded Akkulam rejuvenation project, dredging continues unabated at Akkulam. Even though the order from the state government suspends all dredging activities at Akkulam, the Kerala Clays and Ceramics Products Ltd continues to dredge and transport large quantities of sand from Akkulam Lake. However, when contacted, the authorities of Kerala Clays and Ceramics Products Ltd claimed that they have the clearance from the government to continue dredging and move clay from the dumping sites till March-end. There are allegations that the company is moving the clay without paying royalty fees to the Mining and Geology Department. Even though the order from the state government suspends all dredging activities at Akkulam, the Kerala Clays and Ceramics Products Ltd continues to dredge and transport large quantities of sand from the premises of Akkulam Lake.Authorities claim that they have clearance from the government.