Kochi: KCBC President Cardinal Mar George Alencherry has issued a circular to the Bishops of Kerala, requesting them to ensure maximum possible participation from their dioceses in support of the proposed march of the coastal communities who are fighting for their rights in front of the Vizhinjam Port since the last 50 days. The march which will start from Moolampilly and end at Vizhinjam, is scheduled from 14 till 18 September, demanding urgent intervention of the government in order to address the concerns of the fishermen and find a permanent solution to their problems.

The circular reads as follows: -

Dear Bishop,

It has been 50 days since the coastal communities have been fighting for their rights, who have been struggling to survive and protect their livelihoods as a result of the Vizhinjam port construction, which is causing catastrophic and alarming coastal erosion. A mass march called ‘Jana Bodhana Yatra’ is planned, which will commence on 14 September and will end on 18 September, under the auspices of KRLCBC and under the leadership of coastal dioceses from Moolampilly to Vizhinjam, demanding a sincere effort from the government to solve the problem and to find a permanent solution to the concerns raised by the fishermen. The organizers want the cooperation of our dioceses for the said march. It is desired that as many representatives as possible from your Diocese may be instructed to participate in the march which will start from Vizhinjam Fisheries Port in Thiruvananthapuram on the 18th and end at Adani Port.

Cardinal George Alencherry
President, KCBC