Atlantis RoB project to get a design overhaul to tackle waterlogging

Kochi: The proposed Atlantis RoB, aimed at ensuring smooth connectivity from Mahatma Gandhi (MG) Road with Panampilly Nagar, is getting a design overhaul to address local environmental concerns and structural requirements, which will further delay the project. The original plan to place a central supporting pillar inside a small canal on Panampilly Nagar side faced severe pushback from locals. “The area is highly prone to waterlogging, and placing a pillar inside the drainage channel threatened to worsen urban flooding during monsoon spells,” said Ernakulam MLA T J Vinod, who held a discussion with project stakeholders. The authorities instructed the project consultant, KITCO, to shift the pillars to both sides of the canal. KITCO is expected to submit the revised structural design and an updated, enhanced cost estimate by June 22. The project, which initially received an administrative outlay of Rs 89 crore based on a 2018 estimate funded by Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), has stalled over the alignment of its structural pillars. Concurrently, efforts are under way to clear the acquired land. Demolition of existing structures has already commenced, raising secondary issues. The local councillor complained that rubble from the ongoing demolition fell into nearby drains, blocking water flow and causing immediate localised flooding. “A joint inspection by the councillor, representatives of Roads and Bridges Development Corporation of Kerala (RBDCK) and the contractor will be held to execute corrective measures,” MLA said. On the human rehabilitation front, two households that resided on the acquired land for decades are demanding a comprehensive resettlement package. “The matter will be consulted with district collector before taking a final decision,” Vinod said. The utility shifting is also facing a hurdle. While nods from KSEB and BSNL were secured, the crucial clearance from Kerala Water Authority (KWA) is still pending alongside the release of KIIFB funds for the shifting purpose. Vaduthala RoB: Construction to begin post monsoon Meanwhile, the final design for Vaduthala RoB, aimed at decongesting the densely populated Chittoor and Vaduthala corridors, is being vetted by Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai. IIT Chennai is scheduled to submit the final approved design on Friday. Upon approval, project executioners will mark the specific spots for piling. Actual physical construction is slated to commence immediately as soon as the rainy season ends. To facilitate the approach roads on Vaduthala side, one major building structure has been identified for demolition.