CM sets September as deadline for completing road repairs

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed that renovation works on roads under local self-government institutions be completed by September, with priority given to roads dug up for the Jal Jeevan Mission.

Addressing the regional review meeting held at Thellakam here on Thursday, which evaluated development activities in Ernakulam, Idukki, Alappuzha and Kottayam districts, Mr.Vijayan said that rates for contractors in connection with the Chief Minister’s Local Road Rebuilding Project (CMLRRP 2.0) were revised much earlier and the roads will completed in length previously agreed upon. He directed the Chief Secretary to issue clear guidelines on the matter.

The review also took stock of progress under the LIFE Mission. While 4.5 lakh houses have been completed, the Chief Minister called for the speedy construction of the remaining units.

Concerns were raised about unoccupied flats built for fisherfolk under rehabilitation housing projects. With some beneficiaries unwilling to accept the houses, he said the idea of reallocating them to other eligible groups could be explored.

Mr. Vijayan also stressed the need for rigorous monitoring of water sources to identify the presence of coliform bacteria. Though schools were equipped with labs to test well water affordably, progress has been limited. He called for joint evaluation by the education department, local bodies and district collectors.

The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that the accommodation of migrant workers is safe, particularly during the monsoon. He flagged the resurgence of previously eradicated diseases as a serious concern and urged close monitoring.

He also called for district-level efforts to ensure migrant children attend school. Pending school infrastructure projects dating back to 2016 should be completed with urgency, he added.

Highlighting the importance of anti-drug initiatives in schools, the Chief Minister said exercise and cultural activities must be included in campaigns. While some controversies had arisen, he maintained that no policy shift was needed, he asserted.

Ministers K. Rajan, K. Krishnankutty, Roshy Augustine, A.K. Saseendran, V.N. Vasavan, P. Rajeeve, Saji Cherian, M.B. Rajesh, O.R. Kelu, P. Prasad and Veena George attended the meeting. Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak, State Police Chief Ravada Chandrasekhar, departmental Secretaries and heads, as well as the District Collectors and senior officials of Ernakulam, Idukki, Alappuzha and Kottayam were also present