Kollam Mayor announces major infrastructure and welfare projects

Kollam Mayor A.K. Hafeez on Friday (March 13, 2026) said that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the reconstruction of the Chinnakada flyover will be ready within two weeks.

Fulfilling a major election promise of the United Democratic Front (UDF), the project will see the current structure transformed into a modern bridge supported by pillars.

Medical help desk

“In addition to transport infrastructure, the city is set to boost its healthcare services with the inauguration of a new medical help desk on Kollam Beach on Saturday. Operated in collaboration with major city hospitals, the desk will provide free medical assistance, blood pressure and sugar tests, and CPR training for locals during weekends and holidays from 5 to 9 p.m., supported by an on-site ambulance and medical team,” said the Mayor at a press meet.

Public recreation areas are experiencing a revival, with Mahatma Gandhi Park on Kollam Beach set to reopen by the end of April. After essential repairs, the park will offer free entry during the summer vacation. This initiative aims to enhance the city’s tourism and leisure facilities while permanent upgrades are planned.

Addressing the city’s waste management challenges, the Mayor spoke about plans to install mechanised aerobic units across various divisions to handle organic waste. While the larger treatment plant at Kureepuzha may take up to two years to become fully operational, these decentralised units serve as an interim solution. The Mayor pointed out that the Kureepuzha sewage treatment plant currently lacks the necessary network to transport household waste, requiring periodic trial runs to maintain the machinery. Furthermore, the city has identified land for a stray dog shelter and is exploring adoption programmes to involve animal lovers in managing the stray population.

Providing an update on the Njankadavu drinking water project, Mr. Hafeez said that its commissioning will be delayed to avoid potential salinity issues. Although the plant is nearing completion, the original plans failed to include a necessary check dam, which is essential to prevent saltwater intrusion. Constructing this dam is expected to take another 18 months and cost approximately 90 crore. To mitigate the immediate water crisis, the Corporation plans to dig borewells in all divisions and deploy small tankers to ensure a steady supply.