Enthusiasm long gone

These days, People are seldom enthused to hear about pilot projects planned by the government in cities. One good reason for this desultory mode may be the government's poor implementation record. People will have copious such failed projects to point out to vindicate their sullen attitude towards the newly announced projects.

On the occasion of the third anniversary of the second Pinarayi government, a new program has been prepared to be implemented in a hundred days. There are 1070 projects under 47 departments. The total cost is estimated at Rs 13,013 crore. Out of these, 706 projects are targeted to be completed by October 27.

Roads, bridges, office buildings, ration shop renovation, tourism development and a new women's polytechnic are among the projects. Beneficial measures such as the distribution of land deeds, sale of medicines without taking profit, renovation of smart village offices and distribution of land deeds to thirty thousand people have also been included in the Karma programs.

It is estimated that there will be about 2.5 lakh new employment opportunities related to all the projects. If not for any sham, this will do wonders to drag back the state from the abyss of unemployment. Hundreds of construction works are in mordant state across Kerala and are eagerly waiting for completion. It would be ideal if the government chooses the most prior among this one to be completed first.

Even though the state has made significant progress in all fields, there are still many villages that lack access to transportation and modern facilities. The idea should be to make development reach every nook and corner of the state. Village offices and ration shops need to be made smart and the quality of service also needs to improve.

LIFE mission promises to build 1000 new houses in 100 days. There are lakhs of poor people who are waiting to apply for housing. The dream of a home will blossom for at least a few of them only if the LIFE scheme moves in full swing. The announcement that medicines for critical diseases will be sold through Karunya Pharmacy without taking profit is a noble move. In the wake of the recent Amayizhanjan Canal disaster, the government can make amends with some initiatives to resolve the garbage problem in the capital city for good. It is time to act rather than give big fat promises.