KOCHI: The Vallarpadam International Container Transhipment Terminal project continues to face hurdles from problems such as delay in a decision on the alignment of the proposed railway link to the site.

People of Vaduthala have been protesting against the alignment suggested by a committee appointed by the previous Government. Port users fear that the delay will affect completion of the country's largest greenfield port.

Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan visited Vaduthala in the first week of August, raising hopes of an early decision.

After more than a month now, the Cochin Port Trust and the shipping industry here are anxious. Mr. Achuthanandan had assured the people of Vaduthala that their interests would be considered even as he reminded them of the importance of the project.

The Janakeeya Samithi, Vaduthala, organised an agitation in protest against the alignment and submitted a memorandum to him.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh laid the foundation stone for the project on February 16, 2005. Formalities for getting clearances for the project are nearing completion, and the Union Government, particularly the Ministry of Shipping, has been prompt in providing funds for the railway link.

15 bids received

Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd., entrusted with the work, has received 15 bids in response to its invitation of tenders. The nigam has sought about 30 months to finish the work.

The panel suggested an alignment starting at Edappally Railway Station and passing through Vaduthala and Mulavukadu to Vallarpadam on October 22, 2005.

The previous Government approved the alignment, saying that it affected the least number of people.

As much as 18.38 hectares of land need to be acquired, affecting 78 houses — 27 between Edappally and Vaduthala, 35 in Vaduthala and 16 in Mulavukadu.

The cost of building 9 km of rail line on an elevated structure with four bridges is Rs. 246 crore.

The panel said that those being displaced would be suitably compensated or provided better facilities.

The acquisition was also to be on a "negotiated purchase basis as per the norms laid down for fast-track projects."

It was also recommended that a roundabout project be finished simultaneously with the rail link project in lieu of the railway crossings at Vaduthala and Pachalam.

Besides, the committee recommended that one member each of the displaced families be given preference in employment.

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