CPI(M) leader and former Rajya Sabha member P. Rajeev has said further discussions can be held on practical solutions recommended by environmentalists and government authorities on the Santhivanam issue.
In a Facebook post, Mr. Rajeev said the 110-kV Manam-Cherai project, which was launched in 1999, would benefit around 40,000 families.
It is the right of the public in a place like Cherai to get sufficient power with good voltage. On the other side, environment should also be protected, he added.
Mr. Rajeev, who visited the site on April 30 and held discussions with landowner Meena Menon and greens, said the Santhivanam Protection Samiti had suggested a new alignment. But the authorities held it would affect several homes. They also said it was not practical and might lead to further legal complications, he said.
Mr. Rajeev said experts had pointed out that laying underground cable through the area was not practical. “Most people who I spoke to said the existing plan was the best option at present to implement the project by ensuring maximum protection to the environment,” he said.
Mr. Rajeev said any change in the existing plan might result in the removal of more trees.
