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Time of India

Trida promises basic revamp for Kedaram complex in Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kedaram Shopping Complex at Kesavadasapuram Junction, once a bustling retail hub in Thiruvananthapuram, is set to undergo long-overdue renovations. Established in 1994, the complex has fallen into disrepair over the decades, with declining footfall, poor infrastructure, and neglected maintenance prompting calls for urgent intervention. The Thiruvananthapuram Development Authority ( Trida ) on Tuesday met with traders to discuss a proposed plan to revitalize the ageing complex. Currently, only 52 shops are operational, while 10 have shut down due to dwindling customer numbers. Shop owners report operating at a loss, attributing their struggles to the lack of upkeep—none of the three lifts are functional, and the building has only been repainted once in 30 years. Security is also lacking, with no night-time lighting and misuse of the parking area by outsiders. The Kedaram Shop Owners' Association (KSOA) had earlier convened on April 8 to raise these concerns. In response, Trida has committed to a limited set of improvements due to budget constraints. These include repainting the building's front facade, repairing one lift, and deploying two security guards. KC Vikraman, Trida chairman, acknowledged the validity of the traders' demands but cited financial limitations. "We cannot promise a multi-level parking facility or alter the existing rent escalation policy," he said. Currently, rents rise by 8% annually—traders are requesting a more manageable hike every three years. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Ranger Sees Strange Creature On Riverbank. He Says, 'Oh My God,' When He Realizes What It Really Is Novelodge Undo Shyam Kumar B, KSOA joint secretary and a long-standing tenant, stressed the complex's potential. "Kedaram is centrally located. With proper upgrades, it can serve as a mall and draw more shoppers," he said. Some additional enhancements will be supported by external agencies. The Central Ground Water Board has agreed to install LED lights both within and around the complex. Measures to improve cleanliness will be strengthened, including action against waste dumping in common areas. Tenants also expressed frustration over unresolved maintenance issues. Despite paying an extra 10% maintenance fee, problems such as a broken drainage pipe that caused waterlogging last year remain unfixed.