Key Facts
Road and drainage restoration works along the stretch between Palarivattom and Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) International Stadium metro station are being carried out by Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) in coordination with the Kochi Corporation. The project aims to address chronic potholes and blocked drains that have long caused traffic snarls and waterlogging in the area.
Details of the Restoration Work
Interlocking tiles have been laid over a short stretch in front of St. Martin’s Church at Palarivattom. Groundwork, including spreading metal and surface levelling, is underway. However, progress is measured due to an underground Kerala Water Authority pipeline along the corridor. On Friday, pipes were installed at two crossroad points to connect with drains, facilitating water flow. Slurry-clogged drains are also being cleaned, though muddy conditions persist in several sections cordoned off by barriers.
“We have assigned two overseers to monitor the work, which will be reviewed on a daily basis,” said sources in the Corporation’s engineering wing.
Impact and Traffic Management
The potholed road has been a major contributor to traffic congestion. On Wednesday, the Kochi Corporation issued KMRL a 10-day deadline to resolve the gridlock and waterlogging. The police were directed to explore allowing larger vehicles from Aluva to proceed directly instead of being diverted through the Palarivattom roundabout. However, the police have yet to implement this, citing concerns it may worsen congestion, and are waiting for road widening to reach St. Martin’s Church.
“Since the U-turn ahead of the church remains blocked, allowing such a direct passage would ease the flow of vehicles,” said Mayor V.K. Minimol.
What Readers Should Know
- The restoration is part of KMRL’s phase 2 metro works from JLN Stadium to Infopark.
- Daily inspections by KMRL and Corporation officials ensure progress tracking.
- The 10-day deadline underscores the urgency to improve traffic conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Palarivattom-JLN Stadium road being restored?
The road has severe potholes and blocked drains causing traffic jams and waterlogging. KMRL is undertaking restoration as part of metro phase 2 works.
What is the deadline for the restoration work?
Kochi Corporation has given KMRL a 10-day deadline to resolve the traffic and waterlogging issues.
How is the work being monitored?
Two overseers have been assigned to monitor the work, and it is reviewed daily by officials from both KMRL and Kochi Corporation.