The Canal Rejuvenation Project in Kochi, part of the Rs 3,716.10-crore Integrated Urban Regeneration and Water Transport System (IURWTS) project in Kochi aims to rejuvenate neglected canals into navigable corridors, resolve chronic waterlogging, and enhance urban life within two years.

Industries Minister P Rajeeve said, “Kochi will become one of the best cities in the modern era” as the state’s largest sanctioned project begins. Key works include the Rs 39-crore Bund Road bridge over Chilavanoor canal, targeted for completion by December, and development of footpaths, recreational spaces, and CCTV-covered two mtrs.-wide walkways along canal banks.

Plans include 56 road bridges, 46 foot bridges, dredging Chilavanoor canal (Rs eight crore), and upgrading Market Canal (Rs 38 crore). Mayor M Anilkumar compared its potential to the Water Metro, highlighting benefits like improved water flow, cleanliness, tourism growth, mosquito control, and better connectivity. “The canal banks will become a part of people’s lives,” Minister Rajeeve noted.

Officials stress collaboration among representatives to ensure success, with initiatives like beautification of Bund Road and making Edappally Canal fully navigable.