Meeting directs KMRL to fast-track Kochi’s canal cleanup and key bridge projects

Kochi: A high-level meeting chaired by Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden asked Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) to hasten the city’s long-delayed canal clean-up and bridge construction projects.The meeting focused on setting firm dates and resolving specific bottlenecks that stalled progress of the dredging, widening and cleaning of six major channels - Perandoor, Chilavannoor, Edappally, Thevara, Konthuruthy, and Market canals.“Reviving the canals is seen as a crucial step to improve boat transit, ease traffic on the roads, and prevent urban flooding that frequently hits the city,” a Metro official said.Eden and MLAs T J Vinod and Uma Thomas expressed concern over the inordinate delay in the completion of Bund Road Bridge works. Directions were issued to the contractor and KMRL to expedite the pending activities and ensure timely completion of the project.“Based on the assurance provided by the contractor, it was decided to target the commissioning and inauguration of the bridge on Nov 1,” the official said.The status of Market Canal works was reviewed. Eden requested KMRL to hold discussions with the bidder and explore all possible options to ensure that the works commence at the earliest. The meeting emphasised the need to avoid procedural delays and facilitate the speedy execution of the project.

It also reviewed the status of the proposed Kallupalam Bridge across Thevara Canal. KMRL informed that the detailed project report (DPR) for funding approval was submitted in Nov 2025 and that sanction is currently awaited. Eden directed the Social Impact Assessment Agency to complete the required survey and related procedures urgently so that the project can move forward without delay.Regarding Konthuruthy Canal development, KMRL informed that detailed surveys and preparation of DPR would commence immediately after the official transfer of the required land by Kochi corporation.The meeting also discussed the construction of sewage treatment plants (STPs), which form an integral part of the canal rejuvenation project. It was decided to convene a review meeting at the earliest with Kerala Water Authority, the implementing agency for STP components, to assess progress and address any issues affecting implementation.