Thu May 22 19:26:21 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Kochi residents are facing significant traffic problems and safety hazards due to unrepaired roads riddled with potholes and trenches. Key roads like Thammanam-Pullepady road are in dire condition after being dug up for pipeline installation. Concerns are being raised about slow repair work by various agencies including the Kochi Corporation, PWD, NHAI, and KMRL. Residents and local officials are demanding immediate action to restore roads and desilt drains before the monsoon season intensifies.

**News Article:**

**Kochi Roads Crumble: Residents Demand Urgent Repairs Before Monsoon**

**KOCHI, KERALA – May 23, 2025** – Kochi residents are voicing increasing frustration and concern over the deteriorating condition of city roads, particularly the Thammanam-Pullepady road, as the monsoon season approaches. Unrestored trenches and widespread potholes are causing traffic congestion, accidents, and posing a significant safety risk to commuters.

The Thammanam-Pullepady road, a crucial artery linking M.G. Road and the NH 66 bypass, remains heavily damaged after being dug up for water pipeline installation by the Kerala Water Authority. Councillor Sakeer Thammanam highlighted the road’s hazardous state, attributing it to traffic snarls and accidents.

“The Kerala Water Authority must promptly resurface the trenched portions,” stated Thammanam. “The mobile pothole repair machine handed over to the Corporation by Cochin Smart Mission Limited should be optimally deployed.”

Local activist Girijavallabhan echoed these concerns, describing the road’s condition as “pathetic” and calling for immediate action. “The potholes and undulations along the road, including atop the Pullepady bridge, must be rectified on a war footing before the rains intensify and schools reopen,” he emphasized.

The Ernakulam District Residents’ Associations Apex Council (EDRAAC) secretary, D.G. Suresh, pointed to the Kochi Corporation, Public Works Department (PWD), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) as needing to have completed necessary pre-monsoon road maintenance. KMRL’s slow pace in repairing and resurfacing Civil Line Road is also contributing to the problem.

Residents are urging these agencies to prioritize road repairs and drain desilting to prevent further damage and ensure the safety and smooth flow of traffic throughout the city. Without urgent action, Kochi risks becoming a traffic nightmare during the upcoming monsoon season.

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