Thiruvananthapuram: Mounting civic issues in the city corporation have snowballed into a political flashpoint, with the state government pointing fingers at the BJP-led council amid growing discontent over waste management, the stray dog menace, and basic infrastructure lapses. General Education Minister V Sivankutty escalated the confrontation on Friday by seeking an urgent report from the district collector, signaling the possibility of administrative intervention. However, the city corporation slammed Sivankutty, stating that the previous LDF governing council was responsible for all the issues he highlighted.
Minister Alleges Systematic Failures
The minister alleged that residents are being forced to navigate through heaps of uncollected waste, often covering their noses due to the stench. He pointed out that waste management systems, including Haritha Karma Sena operations, have faltered in several parts of the city. He stressed that sanitation cannot be reduced to token exercises or publicity-driven campaigns but requires systematic planning and execution. Sivankutty also flagged multiple civic concerns, including the growing stray dog menace, non-functional streetlights, and persistent drinking water issues.
Corporation's Rebuttal
Corporation Health Standing Committee Chairman M R Gopan dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, stating that the current council assumed office only three months ago and is committed to improving civic conditions. "Sivankutty's allegations are baseless. His criticism only highlights that the previous LDF council was a failure, as we are continuing some of the works initiated by them. These allegations will last only till May 4, when the election results are declared," Gopan said. He clarified that the drinking water supply falls under the jurisdiction of the Kerala Water Authority (KWA). "It is not fair to hold the corporation solely responsible for water issues," he added.
Legal Obligations Under Municipality Act
Sivankutty criticized the corporation for allegedly evading responsibility by shifting blame to agencies like KWA, asserting that ensuring basic services remains a statutory obligation under the Kerala Municipality Act. Citing provisions of the Act, the minister underlined that local bodies are mandated to ensure scientific waste management, maintain public sanitation, provide street lighting, and coordinate water supply and drainage systems. He also criticized the civic administration's approach to stray dog control, noting that local bodies are responsible for implementing sterilization and vaccination programs.
Steps Underway, Says Official
Regarding the stray dog issue, Gopan said the corporation is finalizing locations for shelter homes and will expedite measures to address public concerns. He maintained that steps are being taken to streamline waste management and other civic services. A senior corporation official echoed similar views, stating that efforts are underway to strengthen sanitation systems and improve coordination with various agencies. "We are addressing legacy waste issues while rolling out new initiatives. Visible improvements will take time, but the process has already begun," the official said. The political tussle is expected to intensify as the civic body prepares for upcoming elections.
