Thiruvananthapuram's Rs 77 Crore Smart Road Shows Signs of Neglect Just One Year After Inauguration
A flagship Smart City road stretch in Thiruvananthapuram, inaugurated merely a year ago, is already exhibiting significant signs of neglect and poor maintenance. The Vellayambalam–Vazhuthacaud–Thycaud–Chenthitta corridor, which was constructed at a substantial cost of Rs 77 crore, is currently plagued by clogged drains and littered footpaths, undermining its intended purpose as a model urban thoroughfare.
Infrastructure Issues and Civic Oversight Lapses
This stretch was transformed into a showcase urban road by implementing advanced features such as placing utility and power cables underground and paving footpaths with tiles, complemented by metal fencing. Despite this significant investment, basic maintenance has been conspicuously lacking. Drain inlets along the road, designed to efficiently channel rainwater into stormwater drains, are blocked with leaves, mud, and various debris. Consequently, even brief spells of rain result in water stagnation, creating hazardous conditions for commuters.
Residents report that footpaths are swept only perfunctorily, with workers making no concerted effort to clear the inlets or remove accumulated silt. S Ramachandran, a resident of Vazhuthacaud, highlighted that all water inlet points are covered in leaves and mud. "This is a newly revamped road. It should be kept clean and neat," he asserted, adding that silt removal has been completely neglected. Near the Rema Devi Mandir, mud washed in from an adjoining lane has piled up along the main road over recent weeks. "It's a risk for two-wheeler riders," he cautioned.
Widespread Problems and Pedestrian Hazards
Similar deteriorating conditions persist along the Vellayambalam–Vazhuthacaud stretch and parts of Thycaud, where drain openings remain obstructed by fallen leaves and tree debris. Pedestrians also face considerable difficulty, as layers of dry leaves and paper waste render sections of the footpath slippery and unsafe. Waterlogging was observed in some areas during heavy rains a few days ago, exacerbating the situation.
Residents point out that the stretch largely traverses office zones and apartment complexes, where civic oversight is notably limited compared to neighborhoods with active residents' associations. This lack of community engagement appears to have contributed to the slippage in routine upkeep. Additionally, paint is peeling off the railings, and the green cycle track has faded visibly at several points, further indicating neglect.
Long-Term Implications and Maintenance Urgency
V S Varghese, another concerned resident, warned that poor upkeep could accelerate road damage. "Vehicles driving over silt and loose stones wear out the surface faster," he explained. Notably, the road does not require frequent cuts for utility work, as cables are housed in underground ducts, making regular maintenance even more critical to preserve the infrastructure. The absence of such upkeep not only compromises safety but also risks diminishing the return on the substantial public investment.
The situation underscores broader challenges in urban management and the need for sustained civic responsibility to ensure that Smart City initiatives deliver lasting benefits to the community.
