Carry out post-tsunami study in Rameswaram: BJP

Madurai, Mar 21 (UNI) Demanding a post-tsunami environmental study of the Rameswaram coast, the BJP today said this was necessary since the Sethu Samudram Shipping Channel Project (SSCP) was cleared before the colossal 2004 tragedy.

Addressing mediapersons here, senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi emphasised the need for carrying an extensive study considering the changes that had occurred in the coastal eco-system.

Even while admitting that the Rameswaram coast had remained unscathed by the ferocity of the disaster, he maintained that certain changes were perceptible in its aftermath.

According to him this aspect had not been taken into account in implementing the multi-crore project.

Mr Joshi, heading a five-member panel of BJP MPs which returned after a visit to the coastal town after an on the spot study, said remnants of the Ramar Sethu, a chain of sand shoals in the Adams Bridge area which had entered into popular mythology as the legendary bridge laid by Lord Ram, should be preserved and not dismantled. The party was not against the SSCP, intended to spur economic growth, he clarified but made it clear that there should be no undue haste.

He claimed that the locals, the fishermen as well as the Muslim population, were for preserving the Ramar Sethu as they had an emotional attachment towards it.

Claiming that there were enough proof to show that the sandy shoals were remnants of the legendary bridge, referred to in the Ramayana, he said the Centre should not disregard the sentiments expressed in this regard.

The panel, constituted by BJP President Rajnath Singh and party stalwart L K Advani, visited the Dhanushkodi area but could not proceed to the Adam's Bridge area where dredging had commenced, due to security reasons, he added.

However, the members had discussions with the officials of SSCP, who explained the details of the project. The findings of the team would be submitted to the party leadership shortly, he added.

UNI