Sabarimala Airport Gets Green Signal: Expert Committee Recommends Special Compensation Package
Expert Committee Approves Sabarimala Airport Project with Special Compensation Package
The expert committee has given the green signal for the proposed Sabarimala Greenfield Airport project, allowing the state government to proceed with its implementation. A nine-member committee, after reviewing the Social Impact Assessment (SIA) report, recommended the project while emphasizing the need for a special compensation package for those who would lose their homes due to land acquisition.
Approval Based on Social Impact Assessment
The School of Social Work at Bharat Mata College, Thrikkakara, conducted the Social Impact Assessment study for the airport. The findings were reviewed by an expert committee led by P. Prathapan, the former Additional Director of the Social Justice Department. The committee concluded that the economic and social benefits of the airport outweigh the negative social impact, making it a viable project for the state government.
Economic and Social Benefits
Once completed, the airport is expected to serve a growing number of Sabarimala pilgrims, expatriates, and tourists, significantly boosting the state's revenue. The project aims to enhance regional connectivity and improve infrastructure, contributing to Kerala’s long-term development.
Compensation and Rehabilitation Measures
The project requires the acquisition of 245 plots across Manimala and Erumeli South villages in Kanjirappally Taluk, including the Cheruvally Estate. The relocation plan includes:
- Resettlement of 238 families within the estate and 114 families from outside.
- Reconstruction of vital public institutions, including the 100-year-old Karithode NM L.P. School, seven places of worship, five commercial establishments, a ration shop, and a dispensary.
- Medical expense coverage for those affected by the closure of the estate.
- Providing employment opportunities at the airport for displaced families based on their educational qualifications.
Additionally, the expert committee recommended that the government review the demand to exclude certain houses in the Manimala and Karithode areas from the project area. It also suggested providing alternate land for religious institutions affected by the development.
With these recommendations in place, the Sabarimala Airport project is set to move forward, bringing significant economic and infrastructural advancements to the region while ensuring fair compensation and rehabilitation for the affected families.
