Kozhikode: Take political rallies, meets outside, say citizens

KOZHIKODE: There are recurring traffic snarls due to rallies and public spaces like the beach are increasingly invaded by political parties and organizations leaving behind a huge pile of garbage. Prominent persons have now demanded that organizers shift venues away from the heart of the city to avoid traffic jams and garbage dumping at public spots.  On Saturday, the city was paralysed and traffic jams went on for hours during the rally of the Popular Front.    

Green Hope society secretary KK Shaju told DC that it was high time political parties realized the problems they created by organizing mega events in the city.
“Such programmes can be organized in the northern part of the beach which is away from the bustle. Rallies also can be conducted outside the city which would help reduce traffic jams”, he added.  Noted historian MGS Narayanan said. “I failed to reach a funeral yesterday due to traffic snarls caused by the rally by Popular Front”, he said. “For a city like ours with small roads and increasing number of vehicles every year, all of us should be careful to ensure smooth city life”, he added.   

Aparna Vinod, a Rotarian, said that that even school children organized rallies which were more disciplined than those by political parties. “Some groups in a bid to seek attention make life hell for many”, she added.  A majority of citizens felt that a few spots in the city, which are essential and loved by the public, should be sealed off from such programmes.  Among those named were Mananchira Park, area surrounding Mananchira including roads, Palayam and the south beach.

The Northern part of beach could be used by political parties and other organizations for conducting programmes.  The decision should come from all political parties unanimously which would ensure its smooth implementation, they added.  Mayor Thottathil Raveendran confirmed to DC that he was thinking on these lines. “I will try to bring all political parties together and hope for a positive outcome,” he said.