Kovalam Beach Revamp Faces Another Setback as Bids Fail to Qualify
The much-anticipated makeover of Kovalam Beach in Thiruvananthapuram has encountered yet another delay, with none of the bids submitted for a temporary refurbishment project meeting the necessary qualification criteria. This latest setback raises fresh concerns about the long-promised Rs 93 crore comprehensive revival plan, which has repeatedly failed to materialize on the ground despite numerous assurances from authorities.
Failed Tender Process and Re-Tendering
The implementing agency, Wapcos Ltd, a central public sector enterprise appointed as the special purpose vehicle for the Kovalam Tourism Development Project, had floated a tender in December 2025 for a stopgap refurbishment package valued at Rs 7.75 crore. The scope of work included essential repairs such as strengthening the 700-meter beach walkway, upgrading public amenities, and improving the police aid post and other civil facilities to enhance safety and tourist-friendliness ahead of the next high season.
However, when the bids were opened in the first week of this month, none of the submissions were deemed qualified. Consequently, the project has been re-tendered, with new bids scheduled to be opened in the first week of March. A senior Wapcos official emphasized the importance of selecting a qualified bidder, stating, "We are aiming for a bidder who meets all the criteria because this project is not just about refurbishment but about sustaining the legacy of Kovalam."
Stalled Comprehensive Initiative
Despite the urgency of the situation, the broader project approved by the state cabinet in 2023 remains stalled. This comprehensive initiative envisions a sweeping transformation of Kovalam and its adjacent beaches, but no major construction has commenced to date. The delay in the temporary refurbishment further exacerbates doubts about the feasibility and timeline of the larger Rs 93 crore plan.
Deteriorating Infrastructure and Safety Concerns
Meanwhile, Kovalam's infrastructure continues to show significant signs of stress. Visitors and locals have highlighted numerous issues, including damaged walkways, dysfunctional streetlights, and poor basic amenities that detract from the beach's appeal. Reports of cracked and unsafe pathways have prompted safety warnings for tourists, particularly during the peak season, underscoring the pressing need for immediate improvements.
The repeated delays in the refurbishment project not only hinder tourism development but also impact the local economy and community well-being. As authorities scramble to re-tender the project, stakeholders remain hopeful for a swift resolution to restore Kovalam's status as a premier tourist destination.
