Corporation aims for detailed project reports

KOCHI: The Corporation will soon float tenders for the preparation of detailed project reports (DPR) on a regional basis for the renovation of canals and drains here. The move is expected to help the civic body in introducing a scientific method to remodel the canals and drains and thereby, finding a permanent solution for waterlogging. “At present, the canal renovation work for the central area is being carried out under Kerala Sustainable Urban Development Project (KSUDP). The work is being implemented on the basis of the DPR prepared by an agency Esteem Developers. Now, we are planning to prepare project reports for other areas also,” said a Corporation official.He added that the Corporation would float fresh tender for finding an agency to entrust with the preparation of project reports. “Once the project reports are prepared, the same will be presented at the Council for its approval. Then it will be submitted to Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and will be implemented under City Development Plan,” he said.Regarding the pre-monsoon cleaning of the canals in the city, the official said that the works are in progress. “The railway culverts are one of the major reasons for waterlogging in the city. This year, the Railways has already began the cleaning works,” the official added. There are 21 railway culverts at the stretch starting from Perandoor bridge to Thevara Atlantis. “A joint inspection will be conducted by the Railway Regional Engineer and Corporation authorities next week to analyse the progress in the cleaning of canals,” he said, adding that the cleaning work on Thevara -Perandoor canal, carried out by Kochi Metro Rail Limited, is nearing completion.Meanwhile, opposition leader K J Jacob said that desilting and cleaning of big canals other than Thevara-Perandoor canal have not yet started. He also said that cleaning of small drains is yet to be completed in many divisions. “The pattern of rainfall has changed. If the Corporation fails to complete the work within a week, the city will face the worst waterlogging during this monsoon,” he added.