Work on the Pachalam overbridge — one of the projects that will give the city a major facelift — should not be stalled because of vested interests, Hibi Eden, MLA, has said.
At a press meet here on Tuesday, Mr. Eden said he was speaking on behalf of the residents of Pachalam and nearby areas. The project was a long cherished dream of the residents in the area and would have a positive effect on the overall development of the city. However, there were a few elements who were creating confusion regarding work on the bridge, he added.
He said allegations about the Pachalam bridge not having a blueprint were baseless. It was being technically supervised by E. Sreedharan, principal advisor to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. The crucial project was taken up by the DMRC. The Kochi Corporation, in all the previous terms, had neglected the development of Ernakulam north, the MLA said.
Considering space constraints in the area, the width of the bridge has been finalised at 7.5 metres and another 1.5 metres has been allotted for pedestrian walkway. However, the alignment of the bridge was such that widening work could be taken up in the future, he said. Mr. Eden said the Left Democratic Front (LDF) should give up politics in issues regarding the development of the city.
The rehabilitation package for people who had given up land for the construction of the overbridge has been worked out. Besides the Rs. 14 lakh package for people who have to be rehabilitated, those who have to shift their shops have a package along with shifting allowances given for six months. He said Industries Minister P. K. Kunhalikutty had also allowed SIDCO land to be used for rehabilitation process.
