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Kochi is all set for a major change. A big project has been approved to improve the city's canals and help solve many problems. The state government has given the green signal to the Integrated Urban Regeneration and Water Transport System (IURWTS), which will cost Rs 3,716.10 crore. The aim is to reduce flooding during the monsoon, manage waste better, and improve water transport and recreation.
Loknath Behera, Managing Director of Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), shared his excitement. He said this project will help bring new life to the city's historic canals and also add fun and useful services like boat rides and walking paths.
Improving Six Major Canals
KMRL will lead this important project. Six major canals in the city will be upgraded. These are Perandoor, Chilavannur, Edappally, Thevara, Konthuruthy, and Market Canal. All of them will be widened to at least 16.5 meters.
At the same time, the sides of these canals will be made beautiful with walking paths and green areas. These changes will help make Kochi more attractive and provide peaceful places for people to enjoy.
New Boat Services to Reduce Road Traffic
One big part of the project is starting boat services along the Edappally and Chilavannur canals. There will be a new 11.5-kilometer water route from Muttar to Chitrapuzha. Ten new boats will be used on this route, and there will be a boat every 30 minutes.
The boats will be built to fit under bridges that have a clearance of at least 3.5 meters. These boat rides are expected to help reduce traffic on the roads and give people another way to travel across the city.
A New Recreation Spot for Kochi
The plan also includes building a Marine Drive-style area along the Chilavannur canal. This new waterfront will have lovely walkways and space for water sports. Loknath Behera said this area will become a new favorite place for people to relax, exercise, and enjoy nature. It will help improve the lifestyle and wellness of Kochi's residents.
Better Infrastructure and Flood Control
To prevent floods during heavy rains, the project includes building a new bridge on Bund Road. This bridge will be 90 meters long. Also, an old bridge on Subash Chandra Bose Road near the Chilavannur canal will be rebuilt. These changes will help the water flow better and reduce the risk of flooding.
Improved Waste Management
Another key part of the project is building four sewage treatment plants. This work will be done with the help of the Kerala Water Authority (KWA). The plants will be located at Elamkulam, Vennala, Perandoor, and Muttar. This part of the project will cost Rs 1,325 crore.
These treatment plants will help solve the city's old problems with waste and pollution. They will make the environment cleaner and healthier for everyone.
A New Vision for Kochi
This new project is not just about building things. It's about creating a better future for Kochi. The aim is to make travel easier, reduce environmental problems, and give people more spaces to enjoy. With this plan, Kochi is showing that it cares about both its people and its natural beauty.
By mixing transport, leisure, and environmental care, Kochi is moving towards becoming a model city with water at its heart.
