Kochi’s Deep Dive: The ₹2,000 Crore Infrastructure Push

The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) is awaiting government approval for two major infrastructure projects—a 190 million litres per day (MLD) water treatment plant and a comprehensive sewage treatment system estimated at ₹2,000 crore—which have been under consideration for several months.

The proposed water treatment plant, a key component of Kochi’s long-term drinking water strategy, is expected to play a crucial role in meeting future demand. Projections indicate that the city’s requirement will reach 600 MLD by 2050, with 190 MLD to be supplied by the new facility. The sewage project includes the development of two treatment plants with a combined capacity of 105 MLD.

KWA has emphasised the need for a coordinated execution strategy, aligning sewerage network installation with the laying of a 743-km pipeline under the Asian Development Bank-supported water upgrade programme, in order to minimise public disruption.

The projects have been delayed following the announcement of local body elections, which put the proposals on hold. Both initiatives are considered critical to addressing Kochi’s future water supply and sanitation needs.

According to a KWA source, the project was initially approved last May, but revised cost estimates necessitated the preparation of a new DPR, which has since been submitted and is awaiting final sanction. Financial approval has already been secured through the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.