KOCHI: The north side of the railway footpath near the Aluva Railway Station collapsed on Monday night leaving the residents of Thuruth island and all those who use the footpath in a state of panic.The footpath constructed by the railways in 1981 is the only means of connection to the city for the residents of Thuruth island. When this railway footpath was constructed, the Railways was given the responsibility of maintaining it. But the local people complain that the Railways hardly turned its attention to maintain the footpath. “We have been complaining about the poor condition of the footpath for years but only when something as serious as this occurs, the Railways do some maintenance work on the path. And often these are meant only for temporary relief,” said V Rajagopal, a local resident.Presently,the situation of the railway path is dangerous as most of the slabs are shaking. The railings are broken at the ends and corners and gaps have occurred between a few slabs. “It is only a matter of time, when something serioushappens,” he said.However, as an immediate measure, the Railways is fixing granite railings along with cement slabs in the area where the demolition took place. But no one knows for how long it will last.The railway route adjacent to the pathway has seen many accidents over the years. And it would be a matter of time, before this 242-metre pathway becomes a death trap to many, especially students, if a permanent solution is not done by the Railways.The dilapidated footpath is a death trap as the Periyar river flows under it.The Thuruth island has only a school and that too only up to fifth standard. “Our children are forced to go to school in the city and this is the only path that they can use. With the railings all broken, it is a big risk for the children,” he said.Also, for people who travel from Kalady and Kavyoor,the neighbouring areas of Thuruth, the railway footpath has been providing the easiest route to the city which would otherwise take at least 45 minutes extra if they have to circle around the city. When contacted, Railway sources said: “The municipality is supposed to give the maintenance funds to the Railways for maintenance of the railway footpath here. But they owe `3.5 lakh to us.
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