Thiruvananthapuram: A cooperative bank has come up with a unique initiative to rejuvenate Chittar, a dying river. A tributary of Neyyar, originating from Kurishumala and joining Neyyar at Aruvipuram, Chittar was fading into oblivion due to encroachment. The Marayamuttom Service Cooperative Bank together with the Chittar Samrakshana Samithi has organised a mela to create awareness on river protection.
Mr Vinod Sen, one of the organisers of the mela, told Deccan Chronicle that the mela being held at Chittattinkara in Perungadavilla panchayat on the banks of Chittar, was an eco-friendly initiative. Bamboo and other natural resources were mostly used for constructions. The event, inaugurated by former KPCC president V.M. Sudheeran on August 30, will conclude on September 12.
The Chittar river would have died in ten years if steps were not taken to protect it from encroachment. After the mela, the samithi will organise other activities to prevent the encroachment on the river. “Awareness programmes formed the core of the conservation plan,” Mr Sen said. The programmes include a medical exhibition, flower show, water show, laser show and photo exhibitions.
An amusement park and a boat are other attractions. A video on the post-mortem examination is shown at the medical exhibition conducted by the Dr Sommervell Memorial CSI Medical College, Karakonam. The adivasi urru developed by the adivasis of Kottoor and the houses built of bamboo and reed, straw, coconut leaves and other natural materials are bound to attract the visitors’ attention, Mr Sen said.
