Chaliyar Doha seminar proposes focus on balanced development

Chaliyar Doha president Zameel Abdul Vahid Chaliyam presided over the eighth anniversary function. General secretary C T Siddique Cheruvadi introduced the subject. Indian Cultural Centre managing committee member Aneesh George Mathew inaugurated the seminar and stated that love of nature and river protection must be there in the mind and activities of every person.Siddique Vazhakkad, member of the Chaliyar Doha advisory board, described the struggles of Rahman to shut the Gwalior Rayons Company in Mavoor, for dumping toxic waste into the Chaliyar, the fourth longest river in Kerala.Koya Kondotty, a well-known socio-cultural activist spoke on the theme of river conservation, and Dr Pratibha, a PhD holder in environmental microbiology and a researcher at Hamad Medical Corporation, spoke on sand mining and its crises. Ambara, a representative of 'Nammude Adukkalathottam' spoke on the theme of eco tourism.The seminar suggested that prior to issuing permits for sand mining, local geological structures should be scientifically studied and licensed in accordance with scientific criteria to sustain the river's vitality, and adequate awareness imparted to the decision-makers. It was emphasised that environmental protection should not be seen as an emotional issue, but that development should be integrated with the environment and human beings.The office-bearers also informed that a study report based on the suggestions raised in the debate will be submitted to the Kerala Government and Central Government. The seminar was also held in solidarity with India's 75th Independence Day celebrations 'India @ 75 Amrit Mahotsav'.Layis Kuniyil, Raghunadh Faroke, Dr Shafeek Thappi, advocate Jowhar Babu, Aziz Cheruvannoor, Sabik Edavanna, Niyas Moorkanad, Abi Chungathara, Jaisal Vazhakkad and Thouseef Malayil Thodi led the seminar.Council members Ilyas Cheruvannoor, Basheer Thuvarikal, Sajas Chaliyam, Sunil Kunnan, Nasser N K, Anas M V, Ameen Kodiyathoor, Haneefa Chaliyam, Dilshad Faroke, Rafeeq Karat and Shameer V K were present at the discussion. Chaliyar Doha treasurer Jabir Beypore proposed the vote of thanks.