Chalai heritage street plan gets fresh push from govt

Time of India

10-05-2025

Thiruvananthapuram: The
Chalai heritage street project
, a flagship urban renewal initiative in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, is finally set to be revived, with the state govt designating it a key priority.
Stalled for months due to funding constraints, the project will now move forward, with a high-level meeting scheduled on May 14 to finalise the implementation strategy.
The meeting, called by state public works and tourism minister PA Mohammed Riyas, will bring together all key stakeholders.Initially launched in 2018 under
Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Limited
(SCTL), the project aimed to transform the historic Chalai market into a bustling commercial and tourism hub, inspired by Kozhikode's SM Street.
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However, lack of funds left the plan in limbo. With the tourism department and PWD now stepping in to share the financial burden, the project is regaining momentum."The project had been stalled due to SCTL's financial constraints. With support from the tourism department and PWD, we can now proceed," said Antony Raju, MLA overseeing the initiative.
"Whether we follow the original SM Street model or adopt a new plan will be discussed at the meeting," he told TOI.So far, only the renovation of eight approach roads has been completed. A senior SCTL official confirmed that the immediate focus will be on road beautification, improved signage, and modern street lighting. "At the meeting, we will collect feedback and develop a revised proposal," the official said.Local traders have long demanded the revival of the project, which promises not only infrastructure upgrades but also preservation of the market's cultural and historical identity. The govt has assured that no traders will be displaced and that the redesigned heritage street will integrate existing commercial activity.The revised plan includes converting the eight access roads into smart roads with modern amenities, installing streetlights, and transforming the main Chalai road into a smart corridor. The market, designed with an octagonal layout featuring eight entry points, will see phased upgrades.In the second phase, the focus will shift to enhancing heritage elements. Plans include permanent entry arches, historical graffiti, tiled footpaths, roofed walkways with benches and flowers, and underground electrical wiring. The entire stretch will also be Wi-Fi-enabled to boost functionality and visitor experience.