Akkulam Lake Restoration Project Gains Momentum After Years of Delays
The long-pending Akkulam Lake rejuvenation project in Thiruvananthapuram is finally set to gain momentum after years of delays and stalled plans. The project, which has faced numerous setbacks, is now moving forward with a revised approach focused on immediate, low-cost restoration measures.
Tender Process Underway for Small-Scale Restoration Works
According to officials from Wapcos Ltd, the implementing agency, tenders for small-scale restoration works are expected to be finalized by February 2026. The tender was floated last week at an estimated cost of Rs 3.5 crore and is scheduled to be opened on February 3.
Wapcos, a public sector undertaking under the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, has stated that the evaluation process will be completed next month, with the work order expected to be issued by the first week of March. This marks a significant step forward for the project, which has been languishing for years.
Revised Project Focuses on Urgent Restoration Measures
Unlike earlier ambitious plans that aimed for comprehensive rejuvenation, the revised project focuses on immediate, low-cost measures aimed at making the lake partially functional after years of neglect. A senior Wapcos official emphasized that this phase is not about comprehensive rejuvenation but urgent restoration to prevent further deterioration.
"The tender process is progressing as scheduled. If there are no procedural hurdles, we expect to finalize the bidder in February and award the work in early March," the official said. "This phase is not about comprehensive rejuvenation, but urgent restoration to prevent further deterioration."
Background: Cancellation of Earlier Contract and Revised Plans
The current move follows the cancellation of an earlier contract awarded to Hyderabad-based Sri Avantika Contractors Ltd, which was terminated due to prolonged delays and unsatisfactory progress. After this setback, the state tourism department approved a reduced-scope plan focused on restoring basic infrastructure and improving the lake's ecological condition.
The original project began with a Rs 64.13 crore allocation from KIIFB and was later revised to Rs 96 crore after cabinet approval in 2023. Avantika Contractors had sought Rs 125 crore, but the amount was capped at Rs 96 crore to stay within KIIFB's 10% escalation limit. The contract, awarded in October 2022, also included a 15-year maintenance clause.
Proposed Works Under the Revised Estimate
Under the revised estimate, proposed works include:
- Removal of water hyacinth and other invasive weeds
- Desilting in critical stretches
- Repair of the damaged walkway and fencing
- Restoration of the Akkulam Boat Club
Once a popular leisure spot, the boat club is expected to resume boating services after the works are completed. This restoration aims to gradually bring back tourism-related activities to the area.
Government's Practical Approach After Repeated Setbacks
A senior Tourism Department official explained that the scaled-down project was intended as a practical first step after repeated setbacks. "Given the repeated delays and lack of bidder interest earlier, the government decided to prioritize essential works that can be executed within a limited budget," the official said. "The aim is to improve the lake's condition and gradually bring back tourism-related activities."
This renewed effort represents a significant shift in strategy for the Akkulam Lake project, moving away from grand, comprehensive plans to more manageable, immediate restoration measures that can be implemented within budget constraints and realistic timelines.
