Sun Mar 16 19:25:46 UTC 2025: ## Kochi Faces Mounting Footpath Encroachment Crisis

**KOCHI, March 17, 2025** – Rampant encroachment of footpaths and roads in Kochi and its suburbs has sparked widespread concern, with stakeholders urging immediate action from civic authorities. A recent meeting of the Kanayannur Taluk Vikasana Samithi highlighted the severe problem, particularly in areas like Kaloor, Kathrikadavu, Pullepady, Thammanam, and Pallimukku. The issue extends to unauthorized autorickshaw stands in Kochi, Maradu, and Thripunithura, further endangering pedestrians and motorists.

The Kerala High Court has repeatedly criticized the Kochi Corporation and Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) for their ineffective response to the ongoing encroachments. D. Dhanuraj, chairman of the Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR), emphasized the need for coordinated action from civic agencies, including the Cochin Smart Mission Limited and Kochi Metro Rail Limited, to address the problem. He stressed the importance of creating pedestrian-friendly infrastructure adhering to standardized norms, which would naturally deter future encroachments.

K. S. Dileep Kumar, president of the Ernakulam Vikasana Samithi, highlighted the fear and inconvenience caused to senior citizens by the increasingly hazardous conditions of the city’s footpaths. He criticized the lack of action despite High Court directives and the perceived lack of follow-through on initiatives like the “Walkable Kochi” project.

While Kochi Corporation Mayor M. Anilkumar assured that the Corporation would act in accordance with High Court directives, GCDA sources claimed to have already issued notices and cleared encroachments along the Kaloor-Kadavanthra Road three months prior, promising further action if necessary. However, photographic evidence accompanying the report depicts continued encroachment in multiple locations across the city. The situation underscores the need for sustained and effective enforcement to reclaim public spaces and ensure pedestrian safety in Kochi.

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