Sabotage Vizhinjam port to save Dubai port in Vallarpadom

Kochi: There are reports of a possible controversy snowballing over the proposed Vizhinjam Port project, in order to pave way for the setting of a Dubai based project, a secret pact between Congress- Marxist- Muslim League nexus. If the Vizhinjam project takes blooms to life, the number of ships heading towards Vallarpadom Container Terminal (which happens to be controlled by Dubai port) will diminish considerably. The state government had spent a mammoth 2500 crore rupees, with Dubai Port pooling in 900 crores for the construction of Vallarbhadom Terminal. It was there after given to Dubai port for a 30 year lease. However, Dubai Port is said to be breaching all terms and conditions stipulated in the agreement, citing heavy loss for the container.

Also in connection with Vallarpadom Terminal, Dubai Port had taken over Rajeev Gandhi Container Terminal of the old wharf and had made a colossal amount of over 400 crores in profit. At the same time, it is the Cochin Port Trust that is in charge of dredging and other processes required to retain the depth of Vallarpadom trench. For this alone, the Port Trust has to spend 150-170 crores on an annual basis- in short, Vallarpadom Container Terminal happens to be a venture that spends crores from the state treasury for the sole purpose of reaping profit for Dubai Port. Going by the terms of this contract, Dubai Port can continue this daylight robbery for another 24 years, all with the blessings of Congress- Marxist- Muslim League leaders’ nexus. And with the Vizhinjam Project becoming a reality, the loot will see bleak days to a considerable extent.

Following assumption of Modi government in power, possibilities of annulling the pact with Dubai Port, in order to save Vallarpadom Terminal and Kochi harbour was explored. However, this was opposed by the state Congress- Muslim League nexus. And now with Marxist leader Pinarayi Vijayan coming to the scene with his share of opposition, Marxist leaders role stands exposed.

Regarding Vizhinjam, the final decision was supposed to be finalised in last Ministerial meeting. That is when Pinarayi Vijayan’s allegations surfaced. It is also being suspected that the move comes with the blessings of Congress and Muslim League. And now, the Chief Minister has stated that an all party meet will be convened to reach a consensus. In short, the project is likely to be extended, with the Marxist clan also likely to voice dissent, making it obvious that the matter is likely to be extended into uncertainty.