KWA orders removal of encroachments on Kochi's Pipeline Road within a week
The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) has directed the removal of all permanent, semi-permanent and other encroachments from Pipeline Road in Kochi within a week, citing the need to ensure free and safe movement of pedestrians and motorists. The order comes after an inspection of the stretch by the agency.
The authority has begun issuing notices to encroachers, which include residents and shop owners who have placed garden pots, constructed temporary structures, or extended their premises onto the road. The KWA has warned that failure to clear the encroachments within the stipulated time will attract action from the police and the courts.
According to a release from Rathish Kumar S., Superintending Engineer of KWA, survey stones will be laid in the corridor shortly in coordination with the district administration. This step is intended to demarcate the exact boundary of the KWA's land and prevent future encroachments.
The eviction drive is being undertaken ahead of a major infrastructure project—the laying of pipelines from a proposed 190 million litres per day (MLD) water treatment plant to the city. The new plant is expected to significantly augment Kochi's water supply, which has faced growing demand due to urbanisation and population increase.
Pipeline Road, as the name suggests, accommodates major water transmission lines that serve the city. Encroachments on this corridor not only obstruct movement but also hinder maintenance and repair works, potentially disrupting water supply. The KWA's proactive measure aims to clear the path before the pipeline installation work begins.
Residents and commuters have often complained about narrow passages caused by illegal constructions and dumped materials on the road. The KWA's action is seen as a necessary step to improve safety and accessibility, especially for emergency vehicles and school buses that ply through the area.
Local authorities have expressed support for the drive, noting that similar clearance efforts on other roads have helped reduce congestion and improve the overall environment. The KWA has urged encroachers to cooperate voluntarily to avoid legal consequences.
This development is part of a broader initiative by the state government to modernise water infrastructure in Kochi, which includes upgrading distribution networks and reducing non-revenue water. The success of these projects depends on securing Right of Way for pipelines, making encroachment removal a critical prerequisite.
As the week-long deadline approaches, the KWA will continue its inspection and monitoring to ensure compliance. The agency has stated that it will not hesitate to invoke legal provisions against non-compliant encroachers, while also appealing to the public to report violations.
