Local Self Govt Dept funded Smart Road project but credit went to PWD; CM skipped inauguration ceremony after minister Rajesh expressed dissatisfaction

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A recent report suggests that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan skipped the inauguration ceremony of the Smart Road project in the state capital due to a conflict between the Ministers of Local Self Government and (LSG) and Public Works Department (PWD). The dispute reportedly arose as PWD Minister Mohammed Riyas attempted to take full credit for the project, sidelining the LSG Department, which had funded the majority of the work. When LSG Minister MB Rajesh raised this issue directly with the Chief Minister, he decided to withdraw from the event, according to sources.

However, the Chief Minister has denied this claim. His office stated that he did not attend the function due to health issues. The official explanation from the CM's office dismissed the controversy as an attempt to overshadow the government's fourth-anniversary celebrations. Although the smart roads, built using modern technology and standards, had been completed and opened to the public, a formal inauguration was pending.

Before the event, a massive promotional campaign had taken place in the city, with banners featuring both the Chief Minister and the PWD Minister. While the project was part of a central government scheme, the funding was shared between the state government and the local bodies. Out of the total Rs 200 crore spent, Rs 80 crore came from central funds, another Rs 80 crore from the LSG Department's accounts and the remaining Rs 40 crore was contributed by the city corporation.

Despite this funding structure, the PWD — which did not spend any money — was portrayed as the sole executor of the project, which reportedly upset LSG Minister M. B. Rajesh. He conveyed his dissatisfaction to the Chief Minister, who is said to have replied that he would look into it. Subsequently, the CM cancelled the program and returned to his official residence.

Although the Chief Minister cited illness for missing the event, he was seen attending all scheduled programs till that afternoon and the following morning. There is also growing criticism from senior leaders over the perceived favouritism shown to Mohammed Riyas, who is the Chief Minister’s son-in-law. It is also reported that Industries Minister P. Rajeev had earlier conveyed his frustration to the CM when the Tourism Department unilaterally took over an industrial project.