Ahead of Kerala's April 9 assembly elections, water scarcity in Vypeen and pineapple farmers' distress in Muvattupuzha are influencing voter sentiments in Ernakulam district. Industrial pollution in Kalamassery and Aluva also raises concerns. These local issues persist amid intense political campaigns.
Local issues are shaping voter sentiments across Ernakulam district constituencies ahead of Kerala's April 9 assembly elections, even as political campaigns focus on controversies. In Vypeen coastal area, panchayats like Njarackal and Edavanakad face acute drinking water shortages. The Hudco-aided Water Augmentation Scheme and Chowwara Water Supply Scheme have failed to meet island needs for years.
A.P. Lalu, a Congress leader and Njarackal ward member, said the water crisis remains a major election issue. He blamed CPI(M) MLAs who held the seat for 20 years. CPI(M) candidate M.B. Shiny pledged to prioritize resolving the scarcity if elected. UDF's Tony Chammany and NDA's Anitha Thomas also promised scientific, permanent solutions.
In Muvattupuzha, pineapple prices in Vazhakulam, the 'Pineapple City,' hover at ₹20 per kg, while farmers seek ₹30. Stakeholders cite climate change, lack of institutional support, and West Asia tensions. Vazhakulam farmer Shine John said, "Our demand for a Pineapple Board, like those for spices and coconuts, has yielded no results."
Environmentalists criticize major fronts for ignoring industrial pollution along Edayar stretch in Aluva and Kalamassery. Clean Periyar water, air pollution, and frequent fires are not in manifestos, though voters discuss them. Purushan Eloor of Periyar Malineekarana Virudha Samiti said, "Ensuring clean water in Periyar is essential for Ernakulam's survival."