Kochi: Even after the High Court directed authorities to ensure proper maintenance of the Marine Drive Walkway, the city's most prominent promenade remains in a deplorable state. Multiple issues, including inadequate public toilet facilities and poorly maintained footpaths, plague the area.
Although an open gym exists in the vicinity, most of its equipment is non-functional. Ranjit Thampy, an activist, stated, "I have been regularly sending photographs to the dedicated WhatsApp number of nodal officers appointed by the Marine Drive monitoring committee, which is headed by the district collector as per the direction of the HC division bench. The Kochi RDO is the nodal officer, but there is no visible action from his end even after repeated reminders."
Maintenance Woes at the Walkway
Numerous maintenance issues require urgent attention at the walkway. "Bushes and weeds along the walkway pose a threat to people sitting on benches, especially due to the presence of poisonous snakes in the area. The tiles laid in some sections are uneven, causing visitors to trip occasionally. Two structures on the Kettuvellam bridge have become a den for anti-social elements and drug users," Thampy said.
Thampy further alleged that paid toilets in the area are not properly maintained, and there are numerous complaints regarding the contractors. "Cameras need to be made functional and should be linked to the police aid post. The toilet below Kettuvellam bridge is non-functional, leaving no toilet facility for visitors to Abdul Kalam Marg. The kiosk designated for the police aid post at Kettuvellam bridge is now a resting place for stray dogs," Thampy added.
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