The Kerala High Court has directed a temporary halt to construction being carried out by Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) at Pulinkudy beach, south of Vizhinjam seaport in Thiruvananthapuram district, citing the absence of demonstrated environmental clearance from the Union Environment Ministry.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V M observed that there was ambiguity regarding the construction undertaken by VISL and Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Ltd (AVPPL), as no party had produced evidence of the required clearance.
The court noted that the Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority, in its counter-affidavit, had categorically stated that the construction at Pulinkudy beach did not form part of VISL’s existing or proposed master plan. It also stated that the activity was not covered by the clearance issued by the Union Environment Ministry.
Observing that further construction could potentially affect the environment and coastal areas if the necessary clearance had not been obtained, the bench directed that a joint inspection be conducted under the ministry’s supervision in the presence of the petitioner, Benedict A, and all respondents.
The court further directed the Union Environment Ministry to submit an affidavit clearly stating whether all statutory clearances required for the construction had been obtained. The report, along with supporting documents, must be filed by a responsible officer before the next hearing.
The matter has been adjourned to November 25, 2026.
The directions were issued while hearing a public interest litigation filed by Thiruvananthapuram resident Benedict A, challenging the construction at Pulinkudy beach.