27-06-2025
Contractor considers exiting from project amid delay
T'puram: RDS Projects Ltd, the contractor for Palayam Connemara Market redevelopment, plans to withdraw from the Rs 55-crore contract signed in 2020, citing prolonged delays in work initiation due to slow demolition of existing structures.
The contractor reportedly informed the civic body that the cost of the project has escalated due to the delay in starting it.
Official sources report that 70% of old buildings have been demolished, with many traders relocated to a temporary prefabricated structure behind the market. The facility comprises three steel blocks designed for 460 vendors, including fish-and-meat stall owners. However, some vendors still await electricity connections and claim inadequate arrangements.
Corporation Secretary Jahamgeer S stated that discussions with the contractor continue, expressing hope they won't withdraw. He assured that all vendors would be relocated within a week, with renovation beginning this financial year. Despite these assurances, disputes persist. In June, police and civic officials forcibly evicted vendors and demolished about 25 shops, allegedly violating court orders and safety protocols.
RDS Projects has notified Smart City
Thiruvananthapuram
Ltd and the city corporation of its intention to withdraw due to demolition and relocation delays. Stakeholders worry that the contractor's withdrawal could further stall the historic market's redevelopment and necessitate retendering. The new complex is planned as a four-storey structure with modern facilities, preserving the market's main heritage gate.
Local councillors and merchant associations are pushing for immediate resolution, with the corporation committing to a board meeting with smart city officials and the contractor.
