Major streets in the city will be adorned with paintings and murals reflecting its cultural values and natural beauty as a buildup to the FIFA Under-17 World Cup matches that will be held here.
The government has okayed a ₹20-crore beautification plan submitted by the district administration to leverage the full potential of the international event.
“It will not be limited to ₹20 crore. We are planning to tie up with local bodies to present a holistic view of Kochi before international players and visitors,” said District Collector K. Mohammed Y. Safirulla.
Besides sprucing up the match venue and practice grounds, the beautification plan involves painting the walls of streets with themes that map the cultural and tourism credentials of the city and the State.
The fund will be utilised for stepping up city infrastructure.
A major focus will be on improving the cleanliness standards of the city, which had witnessed a slip during the monsoon.
Mr. Safirulla said the district administration would seek the cooperation of the Kochi Corporation and municipalities to showcase Kochi before international players, fans, and officials flying down to the city.
“The idea is to work out a complete package for visitors right from the time they land at Cochin International Airport Ltd.,” he added.
The package will include transportation of visitors to hotels and to the match venue and practice grounds. The local tourism and hospitality sectors will be encouraged to come up with their own plans to tap the revenue potential emerging in view of the possible visit of thousands of fans from the participating countries to the city.
The city streets will be decorated with banners highlighting its cultural, architectural, and heritage values.
The organisers are also planning installations at select venues showing the city’s passion for the game and its heroes.
