Kerala HC seeks report on steps taken to desilt canals, sewers and ensure safe roads in Kochi

Saying that Kochi should live up to its “smart city” image, the Kerala High Court on Thursday (Jun 11, 2026) directed a committee headed by the District Collector to submit a report on June 18 on the steps taken to clean canals and drains and ensure safe roads during the monsoon.

The report should include details of progress of work and preventive measures taken, Justice Devan Ramachandran said. The first spell of monsoon rains is just a teaser. Kochi Corporation, Minor Irrigation Department, Public Works Department (PWD), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Railways and other agencies need to take steps to prevent flooding and avoid potholes and undulations on the roads.

On the plight of the NHAI-managed national highway corridor, the court said there is a “crater-like pothole” in the middle of the highway. Potholes are man-made disasters. The engineers concerned should maintain the roads properly otherwise personal liability will be imposed due to accidents due to poor road maintenance. Based on the feedback given by the amicus curiae, the court held that several roads and canals in Kochi are in poor condition. Engineers from the Kochi Corporation, PWD and NHAI “have to be on their toes at all times” as the safety of motorists and pedestrians is at stake. These agencies cannot cite the monsoon as an excuse for not repairing roads. Their engineers must verify first-hand the condition of the roads under their jurisdiction.

The court noted that low-lying areas in the city continued to be prone to flooding during rains, referring to the submissions of the amicus curiae. Expressing dismay at the state of affairs, the court said that the minor irrigation department and other agencies should heed the amicus curiae’s recommendation to install non-corrosive nets on drain holes leading to canals to prevent plastic and other debris from entering waterways.

The Supreme Court specifically sought steps to clear the canal next to the KSRTC bus stand and the Perandoor canal and expedite the long-delayed work on the Mullassery canal. The drains at the Madhava Pharmacy junction where the MG road branches off from Banerjee Road are also in a bad condition and endangering pedestrians. The “smart city” cannot afford that, the court said.

The railways informed the high court that steps have been taken to clear the railway culverts. The matter was referred for further hearing on June 18.

Published – 11 June 2026 21:30 IST