THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The LDF State Committee has directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to take appropriate measures for the early completion of the Kerala State Transport Project in consultation with the Finance Department.

The committee, which reviewed the functioning of the PWD felt that urgent measures were needed to ensure the speedy completion of the project and to prevent it from becoming a drain on the State exchequer. Public Works Minister T.U. Kuruvilla and his predecessor P. J. Joseph briefed the committee about the progress of the project.

They said that it would be possible to complete the project by giving another extension with the contractors.

The committee, which also took up the functioning of the Home Department, endorsed the proposal for an Ordinance to put down criminal elements. The recent controversy over the raids at Riyan studio at Kochi, run by the wife of IG of Police, Tomin Thachankery did not figure in the meeting.

Home Minister, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan briefed the committee about various initiatives proposed to be launched by his department. However, several committee members were of the view that such measures would have the desired effect only if stern measures were taken simultaneously to put down criminal elements.

Forest Minister Benoy Viswom also briefed the committee about his Department's functioning.

The committee asked the Minister to go ahead with the steps already initiated to retrieve land leased to private groups and individuals in the light of reports regarding violation of the lease agreement.

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