Fri Dec 27 03:58:51 UTC 2024: ## Fort Kochi Chokes Under Pre-New Year’s Eve Crowds
**KOCHI, December 27, 2024** – Fort Kochi experienced a massive influx of tourists and visitors on Christmas Day, leaving residents apprehensive about the upcoming New Year’s celebrations. The crowds, comprised of locals, state residents, and international tourists, overwhelmed the area, causing significant traffic congestion and turning roads into impromptu parking lots.
The Veli Ground, site of a large Christmas tree lighting ceremony, saw the largest gathering, with vehicles clogging roads well into the night. Nazreth division councillor Sheeba Lal expressed concern, noting the complete blockage of roads due to parked vehicles and urging authorities to utilize a nearby school ground for parking before New Year’s Eve. She warned that without proactive measures, the situation will worsen significantly as the New Year approaches. Ms. Lal has already requested assistance from the Tahsildar and MLA to address the parking issue.
First Piper 