KOCHI: The controversies surrounding the Pachalam Railway Overbridge is unnecessary and must be avoided, said Hibi Eden MLA. He was speaking during a press conference here on Tuesday.
“There was a lack of clarity regarding the compensation package for those who will lose their land, houses and shops. I agree that there was a procedural delay. That has been resolved now with the government willing to compensate all the loss,” said Hibi.He said that as per the package, 17 lakh will be paid for each cent surrendered. “The government has to compensate for only 48 cent of land. The land owners will be paid and the shop owners will be given space at the Pachalam market. In addition they will be paid shifting allowance of `25,000,” he said.On the controversy over the width of the RoB, he said it was not possible to build a bridge wider than the road. “Whatever measurement has been decided for the bridge is done after proper scientific study. Over 99% people have no problem with the ROB work,” he said.
There is 65 cent land that belongs to Silco near the site. Hibi said IT Minister Kunjalikutty has forwarded his request to Silco MD to provide land if necessary.
Condition of roads and metro
“The first phase of Metro will be completed before the next panchayat elections. KMRL will repair 12 roads proposed under it and the rest will be repaired by PWD and National Highways officials. The work has begun but rain is hindering the work.
CUSAT controversy
On the incident where Hibi Eden and CUSAT syndicate member Sunny P Jose clashed at the Ernakulam Guest House a week ago, he said the issue was being politicised.“The incident was seen as a clash between IUML and Congress rather than between two individuals. That is not the case. Mine was a natural reaction to a personal provocation. Sunny and I are in good terms,” he said.
Hibi said that the ban on alcohol was a good decision. “But, I fear that once alcohol is banned, the youth will turn to alternative drugs. Schools, colleges, hostels-all of them needs to be supervised. It is a challenge to the government,” he said.