Kochi has launched the ambitious Canal Rejuvenation Project, part of the ₹3,716.10-crore Integrated Urban Regeneration and Water Transport System (IURWTS), aiming to revive neglected waterways into navigable corridors within two years. The project is expected to resolve chronic waterlogging, boost connectivity, and enhance urban living.
Industries Minister P Rajeeve hailed the initiative as the state’s largest sanctioned project, predicting that “Kochi will become one of the best cities in the modern era.” Key works include the ₹39-crore Bund Road bridge over Chilavanoor canal, targeted for completion by December, alongside new footpaths, recreational spaces, and CCTV-covered two-metre-wide walkways along canal banks.
Plans feature 56 road bridges, 46 footbridges, dredging of Chilavanoor canal (₹8 crore), and upgrading the Market Canal (₹38 crore). Mayor M Anilkumar compared the project’s potential to the Water Metro, citing benefits such as improved water flow, cleaner surroundings, mosquito control, tourism growth, and better transport links.
Minister Rajeeve emphasized that “the canal banks will become a part of people’s lives.” Authorities have called for close coordination among stakeholders, with additional initiatives like Bund Road beautification and making Edappally Canal fully navigable already underway.
