In a significant boost to urban development, the Kochi Corporation has successfully executed a series of transformative projects across the city, leveraging funds from corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The effective utilization of these funds has not only addressed critical civic issues but also enhanced the local body's credibility, according to Mayor M Anilkumar.
Healing Ponnurunni: From Waste Dump to Green Zone
One of the standout success stories originates from the Ponnurunni division, where councillor Dibin Dileep spearheaded the 'Heal Ponnurunni' project. The initiative aimed to eradicate the rampant issue of garbage dumping in public areas. A key achievement was the conversion of a notorious waste accumulation spot under the Ponnurunni railway overbridge (ROB) into a functional public park.
A private firm's CSR contribution enabled the setup of a biodegradable waste treatment plant. The project's innovation extended to smart waste management via the My Kochi app, with QR codes installed at 1,800 houses and institutions for seamless information on waste removal and fee payment, which is collected through POS machines.
Furthermore, the project initiated cultivation on one acre of land spread across six plots. The Haritha Karma Sena now collects waste, which is processed into enriched fertiliser and sold under the HEAL Environment brand for Rs 30 per kilogram.
Renovating Homes and Recovering Resources
In Ravipuram, councillor S Sasikala utilized CSR funds to tackle housing and plastic waste. Six dilapidated houses at Ambalothparambu were brought under a single truss work structure to prevent leaks, fully renovated, and equipped with six new toilets. This intervention dramatically improved living conditions for the residents.
Sasikala also oversaw the establishment of the corporation's first Resource Recovery Facility (RRF) in Ravipuram. This facility now handles plastic waste segregation from six surrounding divisions. Additionally, approximately 650 biobins were distributed to households, all funded through CSR.
Broader Impact Across Kochi's Divisions
The positive impact of CSR funding was felt in other divisions as well. Vaduthala councillor Henry Austin provided crucial support to complete houses built under the Life Mission scheme. He also undertook renovation projects for public spaces using these funds.
In Vennala, councillor R Ratheesh completed the renovation of the Government High School in Padivattom. The renovation included the installation of solar plants, funded entirely through corporate social responsibility contributions.
Major corporations like Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) and BPCL Kochi Refinery were key contributors. Their CSR funds helped bridge financial gaps for various projects, including the operation of Samridhi Kitchens in Ernakulam and Fort Kochi, which provide subsidised food. Equipment for these kitchens was also procured using CSR funds from a private firm.
The collective efforts demonstrate a powerful model of public-private partnership, where strategic use of corporate social responsibility funds by proactive local councillors has led to tangible, on-ground improvements in waste management, housing, education infrastructure, and public welfare in Kochi.
