Union Govt Extends Smart City Deadline for Thiruvananthapuram

The Union government has decided to extend the deadline for the Smart City projects in Thiruvananthapuram, which was originally set to conclude on 31 March 2025, until December. This extension will provide additional time to complete key pending projects, such as the renovation of Palayam Connemara Market and Chalai Market, along with the construction of multi-level car parking (MLCP) facilities at Vaniyamkulam and Putharikandam.

The redevelopment of Rajaji Nagar Colony also remains a top priority. Smart City Thiruvananthapuram (SCTL), the agency overseeing the projects, has already secured a two-month extension for the Smart Road initiatives, with only the final road markings and signage left to complete. The National Smart Cities Mission is expected to approve the new December deadline. Notably, 95 percent of the allocated Smart City funds have already been utilized, outpacing many other states.

The MLCP at Putharikandam is projected to be completed by May, and the redevelopment of Rajaji Nagar Colony is also expected to be finished within the year. Renovations at Chalai and Palayam markets are scheduled to be completed by December. In addition, the development of Shanghumugham Beach has been completed, with only the relocation of vendors to designated kiosks remaining.

Several other projects have already been completed, including the renovation of Captain Lakshmi Park, Sree Chitra Park, and the installation of pop-up tents and open-air auditoriums at Putharikandam.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.