The Kerala High Court on Tuesday (May 20) directed the Kochi Corporation, the Public Works department (PWD), and the Railways to submit reports on the pre-monsoon measures they have taken to prevent flooding in the city, such as cleaning canals and culverts.
Justice Devan Ramachandran also instructed the Cochin Smart Mission Limited to file a report on the condition of the bollards installed on footpaths near Banerji Road, particularly regarding those that have been damaged or removed.
The court noted that there had been complaints about dislodged footpath tiles along stretches of Banerji Road, especially near St. Albert’s College, making it difficult for pedestrians. It was observed that several bollards along footpaths had either been damaged by weather or deliberately uprooted or removed.
Expressing concern over the lack of progress in restoring footpaths along MG Road, the court noted that the area is in complete disarray. It stated that a road without pedestrian space is ineffective. Despite earlier directives to the PWD to ensure footpaths on major roads, MG Road still lacks even the basic infrastructure. The court also pointed out that several slabs over drains remain open, posing risks to pedestrians.
Senior Government Pleader K. V. Manoj Kumar submitted that work on the MG Road footpath is under way and is expected to be completed by June 30. Counsel for the Corporation said that steps are being taken to prepare the city for the monsoon.
The amicus curiae highlighted that the major issue is the cleaning of drains. A list of hotspots needing urgent attention had already been shared with the Corporation.
The court observed that citizens must not be put at risk due to inundation and waterlogging. It also noted that a high-level committee headed by the District Collector had been formed to address recurring issues annually without court intervention. However, complacency appears to have set in among all stakeholders, including the high-level committee.
Published – May 21, 2025 01:13 am IST