A review meeting assessing the progress of the 'Operation Breakthrough' project aimed at resolving waterlogging in Kochi ahead of the monsoon was held on Wednesday under the leadership of district collector G Priyanka and mayor V K Minimol.
Key Directives for Canal Renovation
During the meeting, officials were directed to remove hurdles in the Mullassery canal renovation and ensure timely completion of work. An amount of Rs 1.35 crore was sanctioned for utility shifting as part of the Mullassery canal works, with departments including BSNL, Kerala Water Authority, and KSEB jointly executing the project. Authorities were instructed to swiftly clear all obstructions affecting construction.
As part of the T P canal renovation, construction of the protection wall is progressing, with the first and fourth reaches already completed. Works including fencing are pending, and the minor irrigation department was asked to expedite completion of the remaining second and third reaches. Cleaning of the canal mouth has been directed to be completed by May 15, followed by submission of a report.
Additional Measures and Sanctions
Administrative sanction of Rs 42 lakh was granted to address waterlogging in the High Court area, and the public works department initiated tender procedures. The meeting also discussed banning the dumping of single-use plastics into canals and drains, which often obstruct water flow, and issued directions to the corporation secretary in this regard.
Issues including waste accumulation near the KSRTC depot, installation of floating trash booms to prevent waste inflow into canals, line drainage at Kadavanthra, and identification and removal of choke points in canals and drains were also taken up.
Monsoon Preparedness Review
Incidentally, a meeting was also held under the leadership of the district collector to assess the preparations made by various departments in the district to face the upcoming monsoon. With the monsoon expected to arrive from May 23, the district collector directed officials to strengthen preparedness measures, including identifying buildings that can function as relief camps and ensuring basic facilities.
Tahsildars were asked to remove dangerous trees and unauthorised boards, while local bodies must update details of resources and relief camps by May 25. Fishers in sea surge-prone areas should receive timely warnings, and rescue boats must be kept ready. The PWD was instructed to prevent waterlogging on roads and highways.
