Kochi Corporation Takes Urgent Action on MG Road Waterlogging Crisis
In a decisive move to tackle the persistent waterlogging plaguing MG Road, the Kochi Corporation has resolved to urgently rebuild the culvert at KPCC Junction. The civic body will also seek a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Public Works Department (PWD) to implement these critical measures. This decision follows a comprehensive inspection of multiple water stagnation sites across the city, led by Mayor V K Minimol, Deputy Mayor Deepak Joy, and senior municipal officials.
Severe Flooding Disrupts Business and Damages Goods
The urgency stems from severe waterlogging on MG Road after heavy rains on Tuesday night. Despite the operation of a motor pump at Madhava Pharmacy Junction to remove excess water from drains, stormwater inundated shops near the Metro station. Local traders reported significant business disruptions and damage to goods due to the flooding, highlighting the economic impact of the recurring issue.
Mayor Blames Unscientific Footpath Construction by PWD
Speaking to reporters after the inspection, Mayor Minimol attributed the persistent flooding to what she described as unscientific footpath construction carried out by the PWD. She explained that waterlogging is primarily caused by the absence of adequate drainage outlets. According to her, tiles were laid on footpaths without removing accumulated sludge, which blocks the natural flow of rainwater and exacerbates the situation.
The joint assessment confirmed that insufficient drainage inlets along MG Road led to water stagnation on the carriageway and seepage into adjacent commercial establishments.Corporation Prepared for War-Footing Measures Post PWD Clearance
Mayor Minimol stated that the corporation is fully prepared to implement corrective measures on a war footing once the necessary clearance from the PWD is obtained. She emphasized the need for immediate action to prevent further damage and inconvenience to residents and businesses.
Deputy Mayor Highlights Delayed PWD Plans and Infrastructure Issues
Deputy Mayor Deepak Joy revealed that plans to improve drainage inlets along MG Road were supposed to be initiated by the PWD in 2022, but the work never materialized. He pointed out that while the corporation is responsible for cleaning canals, desilting work is hampered because many canals are constructed in a manner that limits access for machinery.
"People complain against the corporation whenever there is flooding on MG Road, but it is the PWD that is responsible for the road infrastructure," Joy said. He also noted that the road lacks sufficient openings to channel water into the drainage network, compounding the problem.Call for District Collector Intervention to Coordinate Departments
In a bid to expedite a permanent solution to this long-standing issue, Mayor Minimol has urged the district collector to intervene immediately. She stressed the need for better coordination between departments to ensure effective and timely implementation of drainage improvement projects.
The Kochi Corporation's proactive steps underscore its commitment to addressing urban flooding challenges, but the success of these measures hinges on seamless collaboration with the PWD and other relevant authorities.
