Road, drainage works are progressing along the Palarivattom corridor

Road rehabilitation and drainage work by Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) along the stretch between Palarivattom Metro Station and Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) International Stadium is continuing with Kochi Corporation and KMRL officials inspecting the site daily.

On a short stretch in front of the church of St. Martina in Palarivattom, the laying of interlocking paving has been completed, earthworks are underway, including metal painting and leveling of the surface. However, progress has been measured rather than rapid, thanks to the presence of the Kerala Water Authority’s underground pipeline along the corridor. Potholes have long been a major contributor to traffic problems in the area.

On Friday, pipes were installed at two intersections to connect to sewers and facilitate the flow of water. Mud-clogged drains are also being cleared, although muddy conditions persist in several sections bordered by barriers. “We have deputed two supervisors to monitor the work which will be revised daily,” said sources in the engineering wing of the corporation.

Earlier, on Wednesday, the Kochi Corporation gave KMRL a 10-day deadline to resolve the traffic chaos and waterlogging caused by potholed roads and blocked drains along the stretch in front of St. Martin’s Church, where work is underway on the second phase of the Kochi Metro from JLN Stadium to Infopark.

The police have been directed to explore the possibility of allowing larger vehicles like buses from the Aluva side to go straight instead of being diverted through the Palarivattom roundabout. Convergence of vehicles from Aluva, Kakkanad and Thammanam at the roundabout has been identified as one of the main reasons for the traffic chaos.

“However, the police have not yet implemented this measure, citing concerns that it could worsen traffic jams, and are waiting for the road to be widened up to St. Martin’s Church. Since the turn in front of the church remains blocked, such a direct passage will allow the flow of vehicles to ease,” said Mayor VK Minimol.

Published – 13 Jun 2026 01:40 IST