Proposal for tetrapod groynes cleared for Valiathura-Shanghumughom stretch in Thiruvananthapuram

The Water Resources department has accepted a proposal to build groins using quadrupeds from Valiathura to Shanghumughom as part of efforts to control coastal erosion along the southern coastline.

In an order dated May 5, 2026, the ministry had estimated ₹7 crore for the work, which included ‘realignment’ of the seawall in the area. The Ministry accepted the proposal based on the detailed project report submitted by the Chief Engineer, Irrigation and Administration. This was also one of the projects proposed in the region during the Nava Kerala Sadas organized by the Left Democratic Front government.

The Water Resources department directed the Engineers-in-Charge to fix the due date of the works accurately and prepare an implementation schedule for timely completion of the works.

In terms of coastal erosion, Valiathura-Shanghumughom district has been listed as one of the worst affected districts in Thiruvananthapuram district.

Request of neighborhood residents

Given the intensity of erosion in sensitive parts of the coast, coastal residents are demanding protective measures such as sea walls.

At the same time, studies have blamed unscientifically constructed ‘hard structures’ (sea walls, gullies and harbours) for exacerbating coastal erosion. In June 2021, an independent review (Seashore Erosion in Kerala: Review and Recommendations) by serving and retired scientists from the University of Kerala and the National Center for Earth Sciences Research had recommended the government to adopt ‘living seashore’ models instead. Their recommendations were based on the conclusion that existing breakwater and seawall construction only worsened erosion.