Thiruvananthapuram: A wave-proof gallery and beach beautification project worth around Rs 14 crore at Shanghumugham Beach suffered severe damage after strong sea waves inundated the site under construction, triggering criticism over the execution of the project and raising questions about its planned inauguration ahead of Onam.Large portions of the protective stone pitching and sections of the gallery deck were damaged as rough seas lashed the shoreline in recent days. Seawater submerged parts of the project area, disrupting construction activities.P Stellas, president of independent fishermen federation, alleged that the damage was the result of delays in completing the gallery within the stipulated time frame. He claimed that the authorities failed to adopt a scientific approach during construction and had not taken adequate precautionary measures despite the area’s vulnerability to sea erosion.“The lack of proper planning has led to the wastage of crores of rupees from the public exchequer,” Stellas said. He also demanded that responsibility be fixed and action initiated against those accountable for the lapses.However, officials of the irrigation department, which is implementing the project, dismissed concerns that the damage would have a long-term impact on the project.According to the officials, such incidents are a routine occurrence during periods of rough sea conditions along the coast. They said the damaged stone protection works are designed to be restored after the sea recedes and that the contractor has already been instructed to undertake the necessary repairs once the weather improves.“This is a normal coastal phenomenon. During heavy sea attacks, portions of the temporary stone protection may get displaced. The contractor has already been informed, and the damaged sections will be reconstructed after the sea becomes calm,” a harbour engineering department official said.Despite the setback, the department is continuing with plans to complete the project in time for an Onam opening, subject to favourable weather conditions.The incident has nevertheless renewed concerns over the sustainability of coastal infrastructure projects at Shanghumugham, a beach that has witnessed repeated episodes of sea erosion over the years. While officials maintain that periodic damage during the monsoon is expected and manageable, critics argue that recurring wave attacks underline the need for stronger engineering solutions and better planning to ensure the durability of public infrastructure built along Kerala’s vulnerable coastline.
