With Kerala Energy Minister Kadakampally Surendran backing the Athirappilly hydroelectric project, differences have emerged within the LDF government over the issue.

Some leaders have expressed their concern over environmental issues, as Athirapilly, which is home to forests and the famous waterfalls, is a reserved area.

Pinarayi Vijayan supported Surendran by saying the project is necessary. “The project can be introduced without affecting the environment and waterfalls,” Pinarayi said.

CPI leaders Agriculture Minister VS Sunil Kumar and CPI state secretary Kanam Rajendran said that decisions should not be changed now and then. “If once the decision is taken, only after next cabinet meeting it can be changed,” Sunil Kumar told media.

“Ministers can announce what is said in the manifesto, and more announcements should be made only after LDF discussions,” said Rajendran.

With environmental activists opposing the project, the government has been criticized, even by Left sympathisers, for making public announcements in the cabinet without any consensus on the issue.

Meanwhile, veteran leader VS Achuthanandan said, “There should not be any worries on the issue. Government will not take up any project against people’s wish.”