M.G. Road Drains in Kochi Set for Renovation to Boost Capacity

Rapid Summary:

• Public Works Department (PWD) will undertake widening of drains along M.G. Road to improve water flow and prevent flooding during intense rain spells.
• ₹10 crores will be sanctioned under Operation Breakthrough (OBT) for this project, including the addition of footpaths and twin utility ducts.
• The initial phase will cover a 2.60-km stretch starting from Pharmacy Junction on the left side due to higher pedestrian activity near shops there.
• Unscientific prefabricated drain installations have disrupted drainage flow along M.G. Road; slope corrections and missing slabs on footpaths are also listed for renovation.
• Total estimated cost per the detailed project report (DPR) is ₹16 crore; discussions with ministers are planned for securing an additional ₹6 crore funding needed to complete works fully.
• There is an additional pending proposal worth ₹20 crores for creating an eastern outlet that would discharge rainwater directly into backwaters via DH Road instead of a west-centric system currently in place.
• Previous OBT initiatives focused on Mullassery Canal restoration, reducing waterlogging near High Court Junction, and constructing culverts at Kammattipadam.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The PWD’s decision to focus on M.G. Road under Operation Breakthrough reflects growing awareness of urban flood mitigation needs linked to increasing climate unpredictability. This targeted approach showcases efforts toward systematically addressing recurring issues such as slope correction and improper drainage design that have led to persistent waterlogging across critical areas.

The DPR highlights extensive planning but reveals funding constraints that necessitate collaboration between local governance bodies and state authorities. If executed effectively, thes upgrades could enhance pedestrian safety with improved footpath designs while also creating more robust infrastructure for stormwater management, benefiting residents in both immediate terms (reduced flooding risks) and long-term adaptability against extreme whether events.

Additionally, the delay in advancing proposals like the eastern-centric outlet demonstrates bureaucratic bottlenecks hindering equitable urban planning outcomes necessary for sustainable growth in high-density zones like M.G. Road.

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Published – July 17, 2025 01:37 am IST