Sun Jun 29 15:08:23 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Thiruvananthapuram Corporation has reversed its decision to relocate the agriculture office in Kudappanakkunnu to make way for a decentralized waste management center. The initial decision sparked controversy as local politicians, including the MLA and ward councillor, claimed they were not consulted and opposition parties organized protests. The agriculture office, which was recently renovated and has a good reputation, will now remain in its current location, and the Corporation will seek an alternative site for the waste management facility.
**News Article:**
**Thiruvananthapuram Corporation Backtracks on Agriculture Office Relocation Plan After Outcry**
*Thiruvananthapuram, June 29, 2025* – The Thiruvananthapuram Corporation has reversed its controversial decision to relocate the agriculture office in Kudappanakkunnu to facilitate the construction of a decentralized waste collection and treatment center. The initial plan, which would have seen the agriculture office moved to the first floor of the Kudappanakkunnu zonal office, triggered widespread opposition from local politicians and community members.
According to sources, the decision to repurpose the 50-cent plot currently occupied by the agriculture office was made without consulting key stakeholders, including V.K. Prasanth MLA and M.S. Kasthuri, the CPI(M) ward councillor for Pathirappally. Both officials voiced their concerns, emphasizing the agriculture office’s success and recent ₹45 lakh renovation, which included the addition of an eco-shop.
“The agriculture office at Kudappanakkunnu is a high-performing institution, and its relocation would not serve the public interest,” stated Ms. Kasthuri. MLA V.K. Prasanth confirmed he raised the issue with the Mayor, leading to an agreement in principle to identify an alternative location for the waste management facility.
The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the United Democratic Front (UDF) also joined the fray, staging protests against the proposed relocation.
The Corporation has since formally communicated its decision to retain the agriculture office in its current location. This decision comes after concerns were raised regarding disruption of crucial resources and support to the Kudappanakkunnu agricultural community.
The Corporation is now actively seeking a more suitable site for the decentralised waste management facility, to address the pressing waste management challenges in the region.
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