Proposal submitted for RMS wall in Azhikkal village

Proposal for construction of Rubble Mound Sea wall in Azhikkal to prevent coastal erosion in Kanniyakumari district.

The PWD’s Anti Erosion department in Kanniyakumari district has submitted a proposal for construction of a Rubble Mound Sea (RMS) wall in Azhikkal to prevent coastal erosion.

Azhikkal village has become highly vulnerable to sea erosion. Rough sea and the swell resulted in sea water entering houses in the village. This disrupted the daily lives of residents, making it difficult to access essential services.

Lenin, a resident, said the village was always vulnerable to coastal erosion and sea water intrusion compared to other areas due to its close proximity to Muttom harbour, which is within 500 metres from the village. Every few months, the village faced challenges due to the rough sea. “It even damaged the roads and earthmover was used to clear the sand from pathways,” he said.

The RMS wall that was built in 2005 had been completely destroyed and the wall which had a lifespan of 15 years could no longer provide protection, he said and highlighted the urgent need for a sustainable solution to prevent further damage.

The Anti Erosion Department has submitted a proposal for construction of RMS wall at a cost of ₹4.28 crores. It will be 560 metres long.