As the southwest monsoon approaches in less than a week, municipalities in Kochi are intensifying their pre-monsoon efforts. These initiatives focus on draining waterlogged areas, clearing clogged drains, and reinforcing flood mitigation strategies.
Enhanced Pre-Monsoon Preparations in Kochi
Municipalities like Thrikkakara and Kalamassery have launched extensive cleaning and maintenance operations. These actions aim to mitigate flooding, especially in vulnerable zones.
Thrikkakara Municipality’s Initiatives
In Thrikkakara, chairperson Rashid Ullampallil reported significant progress in cleaning streams and canals. Contracts have been awarded to facilitate these efforts.
- An allocation of ₹50,000 per ward for sanitation activities, which includes mosquito control.
- Current cleaning operations focus on major canals like Kalachal thodu and Edappally thodu.
The municipality aims to complete all tasks before the monsoon season officially begins.
Kalamassery’s Flood Mitigation Plans
Kalamassery municipality has initiated ward-level plans to address potential flooding. However, chairperson Jamal Manakkadan indicated that clogged canals remain a pressing issue.
- Footpath construction by Kochi Metro Rail Ltd has disrupted water flow in several canals.
- Authorities are planning discussions to find urgent solutions to this infrastructure-related problem.
Eloor Municipality’s Priorities
Eloor municipality has recently held a council meeting to emphasize the cleaning and renovation of flood-prone canals and drains. This initiative includes the following allocations:
- ₹10 lakh for stream maintenance.
- ₹10 lakh for the renovation and cleaning of canals.
Among the highlighted projects is the restoration of Asraya thodu, which stretches approximately 1,005 meters along the borders of Wards 3 and 4. Activities will involve the removal of water hyacinth and other debris, along with trimming overhanging tree branches.
Conclusion
With these focused pre-monsoon efforts, municipalities in Kochi aim to alleviate flooding risks and ensure smoother water flow as the southwest monsoon quickly approaches.
