Latest news with #KeralaWaterAuthority
Time of India
02-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Water contamination in KWA pipes persists in Fort Kochi
Kochi: Residents of Fort Kochi have been facing the issue of water contamination for at least three months. Kerala Water Authority (KWA) has failed to tackle the issue and provide clean water to the residents. Demanding a solution to the issue, the residents had taken to the streets several times. "We have been bringing the issue to the notice of KWA officials for the past few months. But KWA is still unable to identify the reason for contamination. The officials just speculate that contamination might be caused by water pipelines passing through drains. They said old, dilapidated pipes burst and contaminated water from the drains gushed into them. But KWA officials are unable to identify the areas where pipes burst have occured, contaminating the pipe water," said Antony Kureethra, councillor from Fort Kochi division. "The water contamination issue exists at many places in Fort Kochi and Kalvathy divisions and also in some parts of Vypeen," he added. Residents are hence forced to procure water from private suppliers. "Several families are finding it difficult to buy water from private suppliers as charges are high. We collected water from the KWA pipeline in our area and took it to KWA office in Fort Kochi. It was visibly contaminated. Discolouration and a foul smell emanating from the water suggested that it was contaminated. But KWA has failed to take any mitigating measures," said former mayor K J Sohan. Many roads and drains were reconstructed under projects like Smart City. During such works, many KWA pipes burst. This is another reason for water contamination, said locals. According to KWA officials, a shortage of workers is one of the reasons for delay in carrying out repair works. "We are trying to procure labourers for repair works. There are certain issues with identifying the leakage spots too. Anyway, we are making all efforts for repair works," said a KWA official.
Time of India
01-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
V Sivankutty inaugurates renovated smart roads in Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram: Education minister V Sivankutty inaugurated the Sasthamangalam-Peroorkada and Oolampara-Ambalamukku roads, which were upgraded to a smart roads at a cost of Rs 12 crore under the Thiruvananthapuram Smart City project. Speaking on the occasion he said that the renovation work on these roads achieved significant progress in making the daily travel experience of the people safer and more convenient. The roads have been given a modern design with the construction of drains, concrete ducts on both sides for cables and drinking water pipes, asphalt tarring and the construction of footpaths. These works have been implemented following international road safety standards, said the minister. The renovated Sasthamangalam-Peroorkada, Oolampara-Ambalamukku roads have a total length of 3.664 km. Additionally, the roads were constructed in a way that provides underground gas connections to all houses on both sides. Kerala Water Authority's distribution pipelines are laid through utility ducts on both sides, enabling the supply of drinking water without cutting the road. The event was presided over by V K Prasanth MLA and city corporation maintenance standing committee chairman Medayil Vikraman, Peroorkada ward councillor Jameela Sreedharan P, executive engineer Rajmohan Thampi and assistant executive engineer Bijukumar R were present on the occasion.
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Kerala Water Authority showcases water treatment model at ‘Ente Keralam' expo
Kochi: The stall set up by Kerala Water Authority (KWA) at Ente Keralam 2025 trade fair, held in connection with the fourth anniversary celebrations of the LDF govt at Marine Drive, is attracting many. KWA has set up a miniature model of a water treatment plant that showcases pumping water from the river, purifying through various stages and delivering to people via pipelines. As the public is not allowed to enter KWA plants, the miniature model helps the visitors to understand the water purification processes. "Three employees worked diligently for a month to create the model which replicates the plant's exact design. A KWA team is also there to explain the operations to the public," said a KWA official. The model of the purification plant was constructed by KWA employees E D Sanal, C K Vinod and M B Vinod. A lab for testing wastewater is also set up at the spot.
Time of India
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Traffic restrictions and parking for ‘Ente Keralam' expo in Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram: As part of 'Ente Keralam' exhibition and trade fair, special traffic regulations and designated parking facilities have been arranged in the city. The expo, as part of state govt's fourth anniversary celebrations, will be held at Kanakakunnu Palace premises from May 17 to May 23. On the days of the event, traffic restrictions will be strictly enforced in key areas of the city. Parking is prohibited on both sides of the road from the Corporation Office at Palayam to Vellayambalam. In the event of traffic congestion, vehicles will be rerouted. Visitors attending the exhibition are required to park only in the areas designated by the authorities. Parking for vehicles has been arranged at several locations, including the Kerala Water Authority compound, the parking ground of Jimmy George Indoor Stadium, Public Office premises, University Senate Hall compound, Govt Sanskrit College, Tagore Theatre and Salvation Army School ground at Kowdiar. Large vehicles must be parked at the Poojappura Stadium ground. Parking is strictly banned on both sides of several major roads, including the stretch from Palayam Martyrs' Column to Corporation Office, Museum to Vellayambalam Road, Vellayambalam to Vazhuthacaud Women's College Road, Corporation Office to Nandancode via Devaswom Board and TTC, Museum to Kanakanagar Road and Museum to Nandavanam Road. Authorities have warned that vehicles parked illegally or obstructing traffic will be removed using recovery vehicles, and strict legal action will be taken. The assistant commissioner of police, north subdivision, Thiruvananthapuram city traffic, has urged the public to follow the traffic guidelines. For details about the traffic arrangements, citizens can contact 9497930055 or 0471-2558731.
Hindustan Times
11-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Kochi Metro unveils ambitious canal revamp to boost transport, tourism
Kochi, In a bold new plan combining city renewal, transport and tourism, Kochi Metro Rail Limited is preparing to transform the city's old canals into vibrant routes for travel and relaxation. With the Kerala state government approving the ₹3,716.10 crore Integrated Urban Regeneration and Water Transport System , Kochi is ready for a big change in transportation and tourism, a KMRL release said on Sunday. "I am delighted that the state government has cleared this transformative initiative," said Loknath Behera, Managing Director, KMRL. "This project will not only ease monsoon flooding and address Kochi's persistent waste management issues but will also rejuvenate our historic canals with water transport, walkways, and water sports facilities," Behera added. The project includes deepening, widening and beautifying six major canals in Kochi—Perandoor, Chilavannur, Edappally, Thevara, Konthuruthy, and Market Canal. Each canal will be widened to at least 16.5 metres. Green spaces and attractive walkways will be developed on both sides, turning these areas into vibrant urban zones. KMRL will also introduce boat services along the Edappally and Chilavannur canals, the release said. A new 11.5-kilometre waterway stretch from Muttar to Chitrapuzha via the Edappally Canal will have boats operating every 30 minutes. A fleet of 10 new boats, each with a height clearance of 3.5 metres, will ensure smooth passage under bridges. The plan also aims to improve intermodal connectivity. The Vyttila–Thevara Water Metro route will be linked to the Elamkulam Metro Station via the upgraded Chilavannur Canal, enabling seamless urban mobility. A new waterfront, similar to Marine Drive, is being planned along the Chilavannur Canal, the release stated. It will feature landscaped paths and water sports facilities, offering residents a fresh destination for relaxation and recreation. "This area will soon become a new recreational hub, promoting wellness and lifestyle among residents," Behera said. To improve water flow and reduce flooding during heavy rains, a new 90-metre bridge will be constructed on Bund Road, and another bridge on Subash Chandra Bose Road will be rebuilt. The Kerala Water Authority is also setting up four sewage treatment plants—at Elamkulam, Vennala, Perandoor, and Muttar—at ₹1,325 crore. These works are being carried out in coordination with KMRL to ensure the project progresses smoothly, the release added.
