Kunnukuzhy Modern Slaughterhouse Faces Operational Delays Despite Clearances
The modern slaughterhouse at Kunnukuzhy, developed under the Thiruvananthapuram city corporation, continues to experience significant delays in becoming operational, even after securing mandatory clearances earlier this year. This facility, intended to address long-standing concerns over unhygienic meat processing in the capital, received approval from the state pollution control board (PCB) in January, raising hopes for a swift launch. However, the civic body has yet to commission the abattoir, citing a combination of logistical and operational challenges.
Logistical and Operational Hurdles Impede Progress
According to sources, while the construction and infrastructure components are largely complete, critical operational arrangements remain pending. Key issues include the lack of a power connection and an insufficient number of registered vendors to run the facility efficiently. The operation and maintenance contract has been awarded to M R Agencies, with construction executed by Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Company Ltd. Despite this, the absence of essential utilities has prevented trial operations from commencing.
Another major factor contributing to the delay is the absence of a clear framework for animal logistics. The newly constituted corporation council has not finalized the system for sourcing and transporting livestock to the facility, leading officials to describe the situation as an 'inordinate delay' in launching the unit.
Officials Maintain Optimism for Near-Future Commissioning
Corporation health wing officials, however, assert that the project is on track and will be commissioned soon after the model code of conduct is lifted. Dr. Sreerag Jayan, the veterinary surgeon overseeing the project, stated that efforts are underway to resolve the pending issues. "The power connection is expected to be obtained within two weeks. Following that, trial-run operations will begin after April 15," he said.
Dr. Jayan also highlighted that the effluent treatment plant (ETP), a critical component designed to manage waste and ensure environmental compliance, needs to be recharged before operations can begin. "The ETP will take at least 20 days to become fully functional after recharging. Taking all factors into account, we expect the slaughterhouse to be fully operational by May," he added.
Vendor Participation and Project Costs
Discussions have been held with a section of vendors, but more participation is required to ensure smooth operations. The facility, built at a cost of around Rs 15 crore, aims to modernize meat processing in the region, but these delays underscore the complexities involved in transitioning to new infrastructure.
