Tue Dec 23 14:18:29 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
Coastal Highway Survey Sparks Protests, Shop Closures in Thalassery
KANNUR, December 23, 2025 – Tensions flared in Thalassery today as protests erupted against the ongoing survey for the proposed coastal highway. Traders and headload workers took to the streets, forcing shops to close in key commercial districts.
The protests were triggered by concerns that the planned highway alignment would cut through a vital stretch of the national highway from Saidarpalli to the old bus stand traffic station. Business owners fear the project will lead to the displacement of numerous shops and negatively impact the livelihoods of families and headload workers dependent on the area.
Earlier attempts by survey officials to conduct their work were met with obstruction, leading to a temporary withdrawal. Today, renewed efforts to mark land triggered fresh demonstrations and subsequent shop closures. Protesters are demanding a realignment of the highway or adequate rehabilitation plans for those who stand to lose their businesses.
Police intervened, arresting protesters who blocked the survey officials. A heavy police presence remains at the site to maintain order. The situation remains tense as the survey continues in certain areas.
First Piper 