Kochi: Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan has said the state government has neither approved nor been informed about the proposed renaming of Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) as Kerala Metro Rail Limited.

CM says government was not consulted

Speaking to reporters at his constituency in North Paravur on Friday, Satheesan said KMRL had issued a release on Thursday regarding the proposed name change without consulting the state government.

He said he learnt about the proposal only through newspaper reports on Friday morning.

According to Satheesan, no discussion on the proposal has taken place with the government and the matter is not under its consideration.

MP opposes proposed move

The Chief Minister’s remarks came a day after KMRL issued a release proposing the name change.

Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden has also written to the Chief Minister opposing the move.

Satheesan said there was no need for the government to react to a proposal made without its knowledge or consultation.

Onam celebrations amid financial strain

Speaking about Onam celebrations, Satheesan said recent landslides and floods caused by monsoon rains had brought grief to many families. However, he said people were coming together to celebrate the festival while setting aside their difficulties.

He said the government would stand with affected people and make efforts to preserve the spirit of Onam despite the state’s financial difficulties.

The Chief Minister also said welfare pensions would be distributed earlier in view of Onam.

Other issues under consideration

Asked about the Sports Department’s report on alleged irregularities related to the previous government’s proposal to host a football match featuring Argentina and Lionel Messi, Satheesan said the matter was under his consideration and a decision would be taken soon.

On the Enforcement Directorate investigation involving Veena T, daughter of former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in connection with alleged payments from CMRL, Satheesan said those concerned should respond to the allegations.

He said it would be inappropriate for him to comment on an ongoing investigation by a central agency.