Javadekar makes surprise visit to Athirappally

Kochi: Union Minister of State for Environment, Forests and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar made a surprise visit to Vazhachal and Athirappally waterfalls on Wednesday.

The visit assist significance as the Centre is to decide shortly on clearance for the Athirappally Hydroelectric project. However, Mr. Javadekar told the media that it was a private visit.

He said that Chief Minster Oommen Chandy should resign in view continuing allegations against him. Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi should explain why he is being selective and not asking Mr. Chandy to resign.

The Minister held discussions with forest officials at Vazhachal and receive a memorandum against the project from the head of the local tribe Geetha.

The Minister was on way to Kochi from Coimbatore when he made the detour.