Cochin Devaswom Board to Award Temple Waste Management Project in May, Completion by August
The Cochin Devaswom Board (CDB) has formally informed the Kerala High Court that the contract for a comprehensive solid waste management system at the renowned Chottanikkara Devi Temple will be awarded in May. This significant project is anticipated to be fully completed before the month of August, marking a crucial step in addressing long-standing cleanliness concerns at the sacred site.
High Court Petition and Detailed Project Report
The submission was made in response to a suo motu petition initiated by the High Court. This legal action followed a formal complaint, supported by photographic evidence, which depicted widespread filth and decay within the temple premises, including critical areas like the temple kitchen and its surrounding environs. The assistant engineer of the Chottanikkara devaswom, which operates under the CDB, presented these details to the court.
The assistant engineer also confirmed that all pertinent records related to the project work will be submitted to the High Court during the third week of May. Furthermore, a comprehensive Detailed Project Report (DPR) outlining the proposed solid waste management infrastructure was presented before the court. This detailed plan includes the installation of an advanced organic waste converter (OWC) plant, multiple aerobic ferro-cement composting units based on the Thumburmuzhi model, and a dedicated material recovery facility. The report extensively covers essential aspects such as site selection, necessary land development, accurate cost estimation, and a phased implementation strategy.
Court Directives and Cleanliness Measures
Concurrently, the CDB's designated nodal officer, who is responsible for ensuring cleanliness at the temple, appeared before the High Court. The officer produced photographs demonstrating the proactive measures already undertaken to maintain and improve cleanliness in and around the temple complex. The High Court expressed its satisfaction with the work carried out thus far.
The court issued a firm directive to the nodal officer and his team, mandating that they ensure the temple premises are kept clean, neat, and well-maintained at all times. This directive emphasizes that the upkeep must befit the high stature and profound sanctity of this holy temple, thereby allowing devotees to experience darshan in a proper, dignified, and spiritually conducive atmosphere.
