Rights panel directs Kozhikode Corporation and Irrigation dept. to clean Manchakal canal

Authorities asked to identify places where the waterbody has been encroached upon

The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has directed the Kozhikode Corporation and the Department of Irrigation to reinstate the Manchakal canal to its original form by ensuring free flow of water in it. The commission has asked the authorities to identify places where there has been encroachment on the canal and to seek the help of the Town Surveyor if necessary. Commission member K. Baijunath has directed the Corporation Secretary to take steps to remove silt from the canal with the help of the Minor Irrigation department.

The direction came at the commission sitting on Friday, based on a complaint filed by A.C. Francis. The commission noted that the canal, which extends from Kuttiyilthazham to Mooriyad in the city, is likely to have been encroached by private parties who have raised compound walls on both sides of the canal.

The commission summoned the Executive Engineer of Minor Irrigation at the sitting and said only a proper survey by the Revenue department could bring out the facts.