Tue May 20 19:43:04 UTC 2025: **Headline: Kerala High Court Demands Action on Kochi Flood Prevention, Footpath Neglect**

**Kochi, India – May 21, 2025** – The Kerala High Court has ordered the Kochi Corporation, Public Works Department (PWD), and Railways to submit reports detailing pre-monsoon measures taken to prevent anticipated flooding in the city. The directive, issued on Tuesday (May 20), comes amid concerns over inadequate preparations as the monsoon season approaches.

Justice Devan Ramachandran also instructed the Cochin Smart Mission Limited to report on the condition of bollards along footpaths, especially those damaged or missing on Banerji Road. The court raised concerns about hazardous footpath conditions, particularly near St. Albert’s College, citing dislodged tiles and posing a risk to pedestrians.

The court further criticized the lack of progress in restoring footpaths along MG Road, describing the area as being in “complete disarray.” Highlighting the danger of open drain slabs, the court reiterated its previous directives to the PWD to ensure proper pedestrian infrastructure on major roads. While the Senior Government Pleader assured the court that MG Road footpath work is underway with a June 30 completion target, and the Corporation stated steps are being taken for monsoon preparedness, the amicus curiae emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive drain cleaning.

The court stressed the need to protect citizens from flooding and waterlogging. While acknowledging the existence of a high-level committee, led by the District Collector, designed to address these recurring issues annually, the court expressed disappointment in what it perceived as complacency among stakeholders. The reports from the responsible parties are expected to provide a detailed overview of actions taken and planned.

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