Kochi: In a bid to complete flood-mitigation measures before the onset of the monsoon, the Kochi corporation will commence desilting of major canals from Monday. According to local body authorities, 82% of desilting work on small and medium drains and canals has already been completed.
Strict Instructions for Timely Completion
Corporation authorities have issued strict instructions to officials and contractors to finish desilting well before the rainy season begins. Mayor V K Minimol stated, "We conduct periodical review meetings to evaluate the progress of desilting works. We have awarded desilting of major canals and all preliminary works have been completed."
Canals Filled with Water Hyacinths
Major canals in the city, such as the Thevara-Perandoor Canal, Karanakodam Canal, and Chilavannoor Canal, are currently choked with water hyacinths. The plan is to complete desilting by mid-May, but there is a high chance of delays as large stretches of canals require desilting.
Risk of Waterlogging
If desilting is not completed before the monsoon onset, it will worsen waterlogging in the city. Silt removed from drains and canals is being stacked on the shores for a few days to dry. If the silt is not dried properly, waste may spill onto roads during transport. Additionally, if silt stacked on canal shores is not removed before summer starts, it could be washed back into the same canals when it rains.
Coordination with Road Agencies
Corporation authorities said they will hold talks with road-owning agencies to ensure smooth coordination for desilting drains. While some roads are owned by the Public Works Department (PWD), others are under the Greater Cochin Development Authority.
