KWA orders clearing of Kochi Pipeline Road encroachments in a week

The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) has ordered the removal of all permanent, semi-permanent, and other encroachments from Pipeline Road in Kochi within a week, warning that failure to comply will invite police and court action. The directive follows an inspection that found obstructions to free and safe movement of pedestrians and motorists. Notices have been issued to encroachers, including those placing garden pots on the road, and survey stones will be laid soon in coordination with the district administration, said Superintending Engineer Rathish Kumar S.

Separately, the Kerala Lokayukta has ordered the Chief Engineer of the Public Works department (Bridges) to remove all unauthorised and hazardous utility installations, such as protruding pipes and cables, from bridges and culverts across the state within three months. The order came on a petition by Ravi Ulleyeri of Kozhikode, who highlighted that such installations reduced bridge width and posed serious risks. The Lokayukta directed joint inspections with service providers and burial of pipes beneath footpaths where feasible, with a compliance report and photographic evidence due by November 25.