The deteriorating condition of Kaloor-Kadavanthra (KK) Road in Kochi has emerged as a pressing issue, as gaping potholes along the stretch pose a significant threat to motorists. The recent incident involving a KSRTC bus, whose axle broke after encountering a substantial pothole near the Ignou campus, underscores the severity of the situation and highlights the urgent need for comprehensive road maintenance measures.
In response to the incident, Congress workers, led by division councillor Rajanimani, staged a sit-in protest at the site to draw attention to the perilous condition of the road. Subsequently, officials from the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) intervened and undertook temporary patching of the potholes using wet mix, alleviating immediate traffic congestion concerns.
However, the temporary fix is merely a stop-gap measure, as officials have pledged to address the underlying issue by relaying the stretch with interlocking tiles, ensuring motorability by June 24. The presence of improper drainage systems has exacerbated waterlogging and pothole formation on the road, exacerbating safety risks for motorists.
Despite initial efforts to improve KK Road’s infrastructure, challenges persist in completing crucial projects aimed at enhancing roadway quality and safety. The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) had allocated Rs 30 crore to transform KK Road into a ‘Smart Road,’ connecting Kaloor and Kadavanthra Metro stations. While work commenced in this direction, delays in completing footpaths from Kathrikadavu to Kaloor have impeded progress.
Compounding the issue further, the contract company responsible for the project has threatened to halt work, citing an expired contract. With approximately 500 meters of the two-and-a-half-kilometer stretch plagued by potholes, navigating KK Road has become a nightmare for motorists, particularly two-wheeler riders.
Moreover, the onset of the monsoon season has exacerbated road conditions, with other bylanes experiencing pothole formation and recurring waterlogging due to inadequate drainage systems. These developments underscore the critical need for prompt and effective intervention by relevant authorities to address KK Road’s roadway challenges and ensure the safety and convenience of all commuters.
