Kochi’s Waterlogging Woes Unresolved

Kochi: Despite the annual recurrence of severe waterlogging, Kochi’s corporation authorities have been unable to implement a comprehensive drainage master plan.

Preliminary efforts to address the issue began in July 2022, driven by outcry from various NGOs and the public, yet the project remains stalled. The master plan aimed to address the city’s chronic waterlogging problem with support from the Union government, state government, international agencies, and the Netherlands government. Initial meetings were held with top officials from the Netherlands and other stakeholders. Royal Haskoning, a Dutch agency, was commissioned to conduct a preliminary study on climate resilience and flooding.

“Although the agency submitted its preliminary report, the project has been unable to progress due to a shortage of funds,” said an official involved in the project. The lack of financial resources has been a significant barrier to moving forward with the implementation phase. The master plan’s delay underscores the critical need for comprehensive and sustainable urban infrastructure solutions in Kochi. The city’s recurrent waterlogging not only disrupts daily life but also poses significant risks to public health and safety. With proper funding and strategic implementation, the drainage master plan could provide much-needed relief to Kochi’s residents.

As the monsoon season approaches, the urgency for effective drainage solutions becomes even more apparent. The corporation authorities must prioritise securing the necessary funds and support to ensure the timely execution of the drainage master plan, thus safeguarding the city against future flooding disasters.