Neglected boat jetty forces students to use handmade arecanut bridge in Kuttanad

The Kapulapalli boat jetty in Ward 13 of Veliyanad Panchayat in Kuttanad Taluk has become a daily struggle for commuters, especially students. The original steps leading to the jetty collapsed into the river nearly five years ago, and there is currently no proper access to the jetty.

Despite the absence of steps, handrails, shelter, or seating, commuters, particularly school students and those visiting Pulinkunnu Taluk Hospital, continue to risk their safety by navigating a precarious path to reach the jetty. The situation worsened when schools reopened this year, as students found it nearly impossible to enter or exit the jetty safely.

Taking note of the situation, concerned parents built a makeshift bridge using arecanut palms donated by the nearby church. Though this temporary arrangement has allowed students to continue their travel, it remains highly unsafe, especially for children crossing without adult supervision. The risk of slipping into the river is alarmingly high. Local residents have urged the authorities to intervene and immediately repair and upgrade the jetty to ensure safe and smooth access for all users.