Raising a strong voice of protest, the residents of Pachalam under the auspices of Kerala Latin Catholic Association (KLCA) on Monday cautioned the government that it would have to face a setback in the next election if the Pachalam railway overbridge project was not implemented.
The residents announced their decision at the one-day hunger strike organised by the women under the KLCA at Pachalam, raising the demand. Archdiocese of Verapoly Vicar-General Msgr Alex Vadakkumthala inaugurated the hunger strike.
KLCA secretary Xavier Ambalathinkal presided over the function. Human Rights Foundation district vice-president Jamee Hameed, KLCA diocese president V A Jerome, and C J Paul spoke. Noted figures in the socio-cultural sphere of the city took part in the agitation.
“Students, teachers and patients are the worst affected. The railway gate is closed frequently which leaves people waiting for hours. Whenever there is an emergency situation, the ambulance, fire fighting units and other services find it difficult to reach out help to those in need,” said KLCA leaders. The railway gate at Pachalam is closed on an average of 60 times a day. The road through Pachalam is the easiest way to travel to Edappally from the High Court junction.