Kerala   

Epidemics highly possible

The Ernakulam Deputy District Medical Officer’s report that Kochi is on the verge of an outbreak of epidemics, including plague, is distressing. Piling up of waste everywhere in the city will lead inevitably to it. The heaps of garbage will trigger air-, food- and water-borne diseases.

The stench from dumping sites makes life horrible. It is better if the city Corporation’s plan to install biogas plants in every ward materialises soon. Since dumping of garbage has met with widespread resistance from places outside the Corporation limits, city dwellers should themselves find ways to dispose of waste.

The experience of the Surat Corporation in Gujarat must be kept in mind, and a determined and concerted move by authorities coordinating the departments is highly necessary to prevent epidemics.

V.P. Ramesan

Thripunithura

The most important requirement for smooth train travel in central Kerala is the completion of doubling of lines through Kottayam and Alappuzha. Otherwise, more trains cannot be run on these routes.

The Railways should allot more funds for this work immediately. Other modern facilities, which the Railways may offer, can wait till this basic demand is met.

If there were double lines throughout Kerala, electric suburban trains, as in Mumbai, could have been introduced in Kerala five years ago, and the face of Railways in the State would have been different.

Shaji Scaria

Kottayam

Genetically modified (GM) crops have become one of the burning topics of the moment. Both the Government and the citizens are discussing the pros and cons of the produce from these crops. With such plant varieties, agriculture land can be put to full use. Varying seasons bring agricultural business to a standstill, resulting in the land being unutilised. Developing GM plants that are frost-, drought- and salt-resistant would avert this problem. This would lead to higher yield and reduced crop waste.

The crops can be harvested in a short time and shelf life of fruits or vegetables can be increased. The flavour and/or nutritive value of the food will be better.

Biju M.J.

Kolenchery

Saluting with the right arm raised to the forehead with stretched fingers is the prerogative of men in uniform. This practice, with the arm angled according to the custom of the men, cannot be adopted by civilians. The Prime Minister, Governors, MPs, MLAs and senior civil servants are required to hoist the National Flag, attend parades by men in uniform and inspect guards of honour.

On such occasions, these individuals adopt the military salute according to their fancy. Dresses worn by them vary according to their places of birth and whims. Urgent action to educate civil functionaries on how to pay respect to the flag and how to return salutes by men in uniform is required to keep the nation’s honour.

R. Krishnan

Master Chief Petty Officer (Retd.) Indian Navy

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