Thiruvananthapuram Smart City Road Project Faces Significant Delays.

The Smart City road construction project in Thiruvananthapuram has been hit by substantial delays due to a combination of labor shortages, persistent rains, and an extended project deadline.

While many roads remain motorable, critical tasks such as drain work, the removal of electric posts, final tarring, and street light installation are still pending. The delay in removing electric posts is mainly due to a shortage of personnel at the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB).

The project’s deadline, originally set for March 2023, has been extended to March 2025. However, recent updates suggest that authorities are now aiming to complete the project by the end of August 2024.

An official from Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL) indicated that contractors are also dealing with damage caused to motorable roads by recent heavy rains, further impeding progress. “Work has indeed slowed down. Aside from the rain and utility removals, contractors are evaluating the condition of roads with the first layer of tarring. There is a labor shortage, but we can mobilize additional workers to expedite the project. The delay in removing electric posts is due to staffing issues at KSEB, which is exploring the possibility of assigning extra personnel. Final tarring will proceed once the posts are removed,” the official explained.

On Killipalam-Attakulangara Road, drain work is nearly complete, with only 150 meters remaining. Tarring will begin once this work is finished. Additionally, the issue of sewage manhole leakage on Manjalikulam Road is expected to be resolved within two days.

Local residents and traders have expressed frustration over the slow pace of the project. On Tuesday, a group gathered near Ayurveda College Junction to protest, urging the state government to ensure timely completion of the roadworks. The protesters cited ongoing inconvenience due to extended construction activities and demanded a swift resolution.

The Smart Road project aims to upgrade Thiruvananthapuram’s infrastructure and enhance connectivity. Although the Althara-Chenthitta stretch is progressing rapidly and is expected to be the first completed segment, significant work remains on the Thycaud-Model School Junction, Vanchiyoor-General Hospital Junction Road, Upidamoodu-Overbridge Road, and Forest Office-Bakery Junction Road.

ET