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Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Smart City seeks central aid for Chalai heritage street project
1 2 3 4 5 T'puram: The long-awaited Chalai heritage street project under the Smart City Mission is moving closer to reality, with the Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL) seeking central assistance of Rs 50-60 crore. Modelled on the transformation of SM Street in Kozhikode, the project aims to give the historic Chalai market a facelift while preserving its traditional charm. SCTL, the project's implementing agency, submitted a detailed proposal to Centre, seeking the required funding. A bustling commercial hub with a legacy spanning centuries, Chalai market is set to be redesigned with a focus on infrastructure, pedestrian-friendly amenities and heritage conservation. The plan involves upgrading the main market street into a smart corridor, installing modern streetlights and completing the smart renovation of eight feeder roads that connect to the market. Work on these access roads is reportedly nearing completion. "Chalai heritage project is a long-cherished vision. We are now in an advanced stage and with the support of the tourism and the public works departments, we expect to move forward rapidly once central funding is approved," said a senior SCTL official. "This redevelopment will transform Chalai into a vibrant, walkable heritage street while boosting local commerce and tourism," the official added. Originally launched in 2018, the project remained stagnant for several years due to a lack of adequate funding. However, a renewed push from the tourism department, which has now pledged partial funding, put the plan back on track. A high-level meeting chaired by tourism and PWD minister P A Mohamed Riyas is expected to be held later this month to finalise the roadmap and streamline interdepartmental coordination. According to the revised blueprint, the market, designed in an octagonal layout with eight strategic access points, will undergo phased upgrades. They include smart paving, dedicated pedestrian zones, improved drainage, beautification and signage systems, all aimed at improving both the visual appeal and functional aspects of the area. Local traders, who have long demanded better infrastructure and amenities, have welcomed the project's revival. "We have waited for years to see Chalai get the attention it deserves. This market is not just a business zone; it's part of the city's soul," said Salim Shah, a member of the Chalai Traders Association. "If done properly, this project will enhance business and attract more visitors," he added. In the second phase, key heritage elements will be incorporated. They include permanent uniform arches at all entry points, wall graffiti that showcases the market's historical significance, roofed walkways adorned with benches and flowers and tiled footpaths. Electric cables will be laid underground, and the entire stretch will be Wi-Fi-enabled, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The remodification of the heritage street project will take place without any evacuation of traders from the market. As per the new decision, the foremost priority will be to enable smooth road connectivity to the market by renovating the adjoining roads. The new proposal is to make the market road pedestrian-friendly and there will be dedicated spaces nearby for vehicle parking. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Eid wishes , messages , and quotes !
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Chalai heritage street project gains momentum as Smart City seeks central funding
T'puram: The long-awaited Chalai heritage street project under the Smart City Mission is moving closer to reality, with the Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL) seeking central assistance of Rs 50-60 crore. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Modelled on the transformation of SM Street in Kozhikode, the project aims to give the historic Chalai market a facelift while preserving its traditional charm. SCTL, the project's implementing agency, submitted a detailed proposal to Centre, seeking the required funding. A bustling commercial hub with a legacy spanning centuries, Chalai market is set to be redesigned with a focus on infrastructure, pedestrian-friendly amenities and heritage conservation. The plan involves upgrading the main market street into a smart corridor, installing modern streetlights and completing the smart renovation of eight feeder roads that connect to the market. Work on these access roads is reportedly nearing completion. "Chalai heritage project is a long-cherished vision. We are now in an advanced stage and with the support of the tourism and the public works departments, we expect to move forward rapidly once central funding is approved," said a senior SCTL official. "This redevelopment will transform Chalai into a vibrant, walkable heritage street while boosting local commerce and tourism," the official added. Originally launched in 2018, the project remained stagnant for several years due to a lack of adequate funding. However, a renewed push from the tourism department, which has now pledged partial funding, put the plan back on track. A high-level meeting chaired by tourism and PWD minister P A Mohamed Riyas is expected to be held later this month to finalise the roadmap and streamline interdepartmental coordination. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now According to the revised blueprint, the market, designed in an octagonal layout with eight strategic access points, will undergo phased upgrades. They include smart paving, dedicated pedestrian zones, improved drainage, beautification and signage systems, all aimed at improving both the visual appeal and functional aspects of the area. Local traders, who have long demanded better infrastructure and amenities, have welcomed the project's revival. "We have waited for years to see Chalai get the attention it deserves. This market is not just a business zone; it's part of the city's soul," said Salim Shah, a member of the Chalai Traders Association. "If done properly, this project will enhance business and attract more visitors," he added. In the second phase, key heritage elements will be incorporated. They include permanent uniform arches at all entry points, wall graffiti that showcases the market's historical significance, roofed walkways adorned with benches and flowers and tiled footpaths. Electric cables will be laid underground, and the entire stretch will be Wi-Fi-enabled, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The remodification of the heritage street project will take place without any evacuation of traders from the market. As per the new decision, the foremost priority will be to enable smooth road connectivity to the market by renovating the adjoining roads. The new proposal is to make the market road pedestrian-friendly and there will be dedicated spaces nearby for vehicle parking.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Two new multi-level car parking facilities set to open in Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram: The state capital is poised to alleviate its chronic parking woes as two major multi-level car parking (MLCP) facilities will be officially opened soon, while groundwork for a third MLCP is underway. The MLCP at Govt Medical College Hospital (MCH) is slated to open this month. Constructed at a cost of Rs 16.58 crore under the Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL), the facility can accommodate approximately 202 cars. It aims to streamline parking for the bustling MCH campus, which also includes Regional Cancer Centre and SAT Hospital. Simultaneously, MLCP at Putharikandam Maidan is expected to be operational by mid-July. This Rs 20 crore project will offer parking for both four-wheelers and two-wheelers. The proposed MLCP at Vaniyamkulam, near Aryasala, has progressed to the land-clearing stage, with piling works set to commence soon. This facility is designed to accommodate trucks on the ground floor and will include commercial spaces, addressing the area's specific commercial needs. All three projects are being executed under the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) model, ensuring comprehensive design, supply, installation and maintenance of automated systems. "The completion of these MLCPs marks a significant step towards resolving the city's parking challenges," said corporation secretary Jahamgeer S. "We will enhance urban mobility and ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with the city's growth," he added. A senior official from SCTL added, "These facilities are not just about parking; they are about reimagining urban spaces to be more efficient and user-friendly. The integration of automated systems will set a new standard for parking solutions in the city." Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Eid wishes , messages , and quotes !
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Smart City roads to be inaugurated by chief minister in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday
Thiruvananthapuram: After several delays and shifting timelines, the smart road project in the state capital is finally nearing completion. is set to inaugurate the newly developed roads on Friday. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The launch will coincide with the fourth anniversary celebrations of the state govt. The event will be held at Manaveeyam Veedhi at 4.30pm. PWD minister PA Mohamed Riyas will preside over the , a flagship initiative under the Smart City Mission, aims to modernise the city's core road infrastructure with advanced urban mobility features, improved public amenities and integrated utility management. The project is being implemented by Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL), a special purpose vehicle formed for the initiative. A total of 24 roads, spanning approximately 40km, across the city were developed in this them, the Vellayambalam–Althara–Chenthitta stretch is the longest smart road in the state capital. A dedicated cycle track is also nearing completion on this prominent smart road stretches include the Killipalam–Attakulangara Road, which links eastern city regions to the central zone and the Vanchiyoor–General Hospital Road, a crucial stretch providing access to medical and administrative institutions. The Palayam-Ayyankali Hall smart road, which is the second nightlife spot after Manaveeyam Veedhi, is likely to be opened other roads in high-density areas like Palayam, Forest Headquarters-Bakery Junction Road, and Statue-General Hospital have also been upgraded with smart infrastructure. Each smart road is designed with features such as underground utility ducts, energy-efficient LED streetlights, pedestrian-friendly footpaths, cycling tracks, organised parking bays and advanced drainage systems to prevent waterlogging."The CM will officially open the completed roads on Friday. It's a proud moment that reflects the city's move toward smarter, more sustainable infrastructure," an SCTL official the state-of-the-art planning, the project endured repeated delays due to a range of factors, including slow contract awarding, shifting deadlines, challenges in relocating utilities and seasonal monsoon disruptions. Some stretches paused work several times due to water stagnation and poor inter-agency smart roads are expected to significantly ease traffic, enhance commuter safety and improve the overall urban experience for residents and visitors alike.
New Indian Express
11-05-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
Chalai market redevelopment project eyes revival under Centre's new scheme
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The long-awaited redevelopment project for Chalai market may soon receive a boost, as the state government seeks financial assistance through the Union government's newly launched Urban Challenge Scheme. Official sources indicate that authorities are aiming to secure one-third of the project's estimated cost of around Rs 200 crore from this Central scheme, which was recently announced in the Union Budget. Initiated by Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL), the redevelopment aims to revitalise the centuries-old market. The project is planned in four phases, with Phase I, focused on upgrading the roads, nearing completion. However, due to a lack of funds, SCTL had to pause the subsequent phases. 'We have been actively seeking funding sources, and the Centre has responded positively to our proposal. Discussions are in the final stages, and we are hopeful of securing the necessary funds. One notable feature of the project will be the installation of umbrella covers along the main street of the market,' said an official. SCTL officials said that the Chalai redevelopment project was adopted in 2022 as a contingency plan. 'That year, we were struggling to move forward because several major projects, including the Palayam market and Rajaji Nagar redevelopment, were stalled. The Centre mandated that we initiate alternative projects or risk returning the sanctioned funds. As a result, we chose to focus on Chalai. Once progress resumed on the other projects, however, we faced funding challenges for Chalai and started seeking alternative financial resources,' an SCTL official said. In Phase I, SCTL has already upgraded most of the road network within Chalai market, with only the main arterial road left to be worked on. Officials said that construction on this critical stretch will begin soon. So far, approximately Rs 15 crore has been spent on roadworks, with the total cost for this component expected to reach Rs 30 crore. Another key feature of the project is a proposed multi-level car parking facility on corporation-owned land on the market premises.
