HC restrains blasting operations for construction of highway

Kochi: The High Court has restrained blasting operations for removal of rocks for construction of six-lane national highway between Wadakkancherry and Thrissur in the state.

Considering petitions filed by the residents that the blasting operations for constructing NH 47 would cause damage to their houses, Justice K Vinod Chandran directed the authorities to "ensure that no blasting operations are carried out" till the contractor obtains requisite sanctions and permits.

The petitioners had contended that their houses are within 50 metres from the blasting site, which is within the prohibited distance of 100 metres, as prescribed by the Kerala State Pollution Control Board, for quarries.