Save mullaperiyar dam trivandrum campaign gives ‘rays of hope’

As the Mullaperiyar Dam issue stirs up the minds of the people, youngsters of Kerala are not ready to give up their campaign to 'Build New Dam'. After the netizens gathering at marine drive in Kochi few days ago, hundreds of young people assembled at Thiruvanthapuaram Shamkhummukham beach on 4th December showing their respect to millions who are on the verge of a possible dam disaster. The gathering hosted by the 'Save Mullaperiyar' Facebook group had brought hundreds of like minded youngsters to a unique platform.


At Kawdiyar junction, the bike rally was flagged off by well known sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman. Hundreds of youth on bikes reached Shamkhummukham beach wearing T-shirts with printed slogan "Build a New Dam". At Shanmugham students of Fine Arts College made a spectacular demo worked on sand which portraits the Mullaperiyar Dam, which posses threat to millions. Much popular movie director Rajasenan inaugurated the meet at Shamkhummukham beach which had the live presence of Music composer Balabhaskar and Shan. A documentary video on Mullaperiyar agitations was screened. Adding to it Balabhaskar and Shan performed the theme song "Open your eyes, let's do something" which made the crowd sing along with its tune.

Mavelikara Ramachandran and B R P Bhaskaran with their presence and support shared their thoughts regarding the Mullaperiyar Dam issue. All those who spoke on the occasion stood firm in appealing the authorities to solve the mullaperiyar issue as soon as possible. The candle light vigil was inaugurated by Rajasenan who had lighted the candles which were then passed on to thousands gathered at the beach for a common cause. With lighted candles the people marched towards the portrayed sand dam and placed them on it. It was a great moment for the gathering coming together to give support for lakhs of people who demand the government to keep then safe. Aravind Ajith gave vote of thanks to the thousands who came up supporting the campaign. It is expected that in coming days the volunteers would extend the similar protest in other districts.

Different facebook groups supporting the campaign had grown up to have around 25,000 members in total. More members are being added up which might take the campaign to the next level. The active presence by the social media networks had brought many youngsters come together which makes the real awakening. Amal Babu, Aravind Ajith and Malu Raveendranath are just few names among the organizers had really taken pain to bring people together.

The trivandrum gathering really shows the spirit of the youth who can turn dreams in to reality. Let this companion give them more strength to reach more people and to awake the authorities who are still hiding behind the screen while the people line up for with the slogan ,'We have the right to live'.