After enduring years of isolation due to washed-out bridges, Mlamala village in Idukki, Kerala, has finally achieved proper road connectivity, thanks to the relentless efforts of a group of high school students.
The journey towards this achievement began with a letter penned by five students from Fathima Matha School to the judges of the Kerala High Court, detailing the dire situation caused by the floods that repeatedly destroyed the village’s bridges. Prompted by the students’ plea, a Division Bench led by former Chief Justice S. Manikumar initiated suo motu public interest litigation, compelling the State government to take action.
As a result, the court directed the government to allocate funds for the construction of two crucial bridges, Santhipalam and Nooradipalam, which serve as lifelines for the village. Despite facing challenges, including the devastation caused by the 2018 and 2019 floods and the lack of response from government representatives, the students remained steadfast in their pursuit of justice for their community.
The reconstruction efforts, fueled by the students’ advocacy, have borne fruit, with the completion of the Santhipalam bridge and ongoing work on the Nooradipalam bridge and its approach road. The virtual inauguration of the Santhipalam bridge by Public Works Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas symbolizes a beacon of hope for the residents of Mlamala, marking the beginning of a new era of connectivity and accessibility for the village.
The successful outcome serves as a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the unwavering determination of youth in driving positive change within their communities. With renewed connectivity, Mlamala village is poised to thrive and flourish, thanks to the inspiring efforts of its young advocates and the collaborative support of the judiciary and government authorities.
