State govt steps in to remove controversial ship replica from Kanakakunnu Palace

Thiruvananthapuram: After mounting public pressure and protests by environmentalists, the state govt finally intervened to remove the replica of a container-laden ship at the Kanakakunnu Palace premises. The decision came after criticism from green activists, led by the environmental group Tree Walk, who raised concerns that the installation posed a threat to the heritage site's ecology. Protesters argued that the structure, erected to mark the inauguration of Vizhinjam port, disrupted the natural landscape and endangered trees on the palace grounds.

VK Prasanth, MLA, confirmed to TOI that he directed the tourism department to remove the installation immediately. "The installation was placed as part of the inauguration of the port. Since that event is over, I directed the tourism department to remove it. I understand the concerns raised by tree lovers," he said.

The installation sparked strong opposition due to its scale and location, which many felt clashed with the aesthetic and environmental value of the palace grounds. On Saturday, a group of 20 nature lovers staged a peaceful protest walk at Kanakakunnu Palace grounds, calling for the preservation of the site's ecological and historical character.

"Installing massive structures like a replica ship in a heritage zone completely undermines the character and integrity of the space. The govt even placed floodlights and other materials on the trees to illuminate the installation. This will harm the trees," said Asha Gopinath, a member of Tree Walk.

Earlier, environmentalists moved the high court against a nightlife project proposed at the palace grounds. The court issued a stay order, halting the project and restricting any form of construction, hard landscaping, or alteration within the protected compound.