SSCP would pose security threat to the nation: Jaya

Chennai, Oct 17 (UNI) AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa today alleged that even if the proposed Sethusamudaram Shipping Canal Project (SSCP) was implemented, Indian would face a severe security threat because many internatioal warships would cross the Canal.

Talking to newspersons here, she alleged if the SSCP gets completed, the area would be declared as International Canal and all countries would find it convenient to send their warships, which would pose a security threat to our nation.

''Before taking up the SSCP, the government had not even considered the elementary aspect of national security'', she alleged.

Asked about the Left party's contention that foreign warships should not be allowed near Indian territory, but not objecting to the SSCP, she said ''they are playing pure politics''.

Ms Jayalalithaa pointed out that the SSCP project was not economically viable since the earlier estimated cost was Rs 2,400 crore, but today it has increased to Rs 4,000 crore.

''Apart from the economic viability, Axis Bank has also decided not to provide funding to the SSCP'', she said adding even Centre was disinclined to finance the project, as there is no finance here to execute the project.

On the ecological impact, Ms Jayalalithaa alleged that many marine resources would be destroyed, which would cause adverse impact on thousands of fishermen living in the area.

UNI