Corporation alone cannot fix waterlogging issue, says Thiruvananthapuram Mayor

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Mayor V. V. Rajesh has defended the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation following widespread waterlogging in the state capital after heavy rainfall on Saturday. Speaking to the media, Rajesh said the issue cannot be permanently resolved by the Corporation alone and requires coordinated action from multiple government departments.

"It is unfair to expect the Corporation to solve a problem that requires the combined efforts of nine different departments," he said. The Mayor added that he had discussed the matter with Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan.

According to Rajesh, the recurring flooding in Thiruvananthapuram is the result of decades of unscientific urban development and construction practices.

"The waterlogging seen in Thiruvananthapuram is the result of unplanned development over many years. This problem cannot be solved overnight. However, we do have a mechanism to address it," he said.

The Mayor stated that discussions had already been held with senior officials and that a detailed action plan had been prepared to tackle the issue.

He pointed out that the maintenance of the Amayizhanchan Canal and Parvathiputhanar falls entirely under the responsibility of the Irrigation Department.

"If slabs are constructed over these waterways, the problem can be significantly reduced. The Corporation can take the initiative, but funding must come through central and state government projects. We also need expert guidance. A plan is already in place," Rajesh said.

The remarks come after heavy rain submerged several parts of the capital city, causing major inconvenience to residents and commuters.