Kochi: Commuters traveling through the outskirts of Tripunithura finally experienced some relief this week after National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials moved to patch up the heavily cratered rail over bridge (RoB) adjacent to S N Junction metro station along NH 85 corridor. For months, the numerous, deep potholes along this busy stretch severely disrupted traffic, slowing down daily commutes and causing minor accidents, especially during peak hours. Local motorists welcomed the long-awaited maintenance work, noting that it eased the bottleneck in the stretch from Choice Tower to near the metro station.
However, residents and daily commuters emphasize that the battle for safe infrastructure in the area is far from over. Despite the newly repaired road surface, the RoB remains shrouded in complete darkness after sunset. “Fixing the potholes solves only half the problem. The entire bridge completely lacks functional streetlights. Driving at night is hazardous, as motorists struggle to see pedestrians or sudden obstructions. There are a couple of streetlight poles at the start of the RoB, but without any lights at the top,” said Ramesh Nair, a frequent traveler. Community groups are urging the municipal corporation and NHAI to fast-track the installation of street lighting before the monsoon intensifies.
Simultaneously, residents raised alarm over the deteriorating environmental conditions on the west side of Tripunithura railway station. The local canal flowing through the sector has become choked with plastic waste, wild weeds, and stagnant water, turning it into a breeding ground for mosquitoes and generating a persistent foul odor. “While the municipality cleaned up the canal on the western side of the railway station, the situation in the east remains pathetic. The same (towards the SAIL land) is causing waterlogging in heavy rains,” said V C Jayendran, convener, Tripunithura Rajanagari Union of Residents Association (TRURA). Flanking the railway station, the waterbody is crucial for the area’s natural drainage. Residents are demanding an immediate, comprehensive desiltation and cleanup drive to prevent severe waterlogging in the neighborhood.
