: Kochiites have put forth their wishlist for a ‘greater Kochi’ after the newly-elected councillors took oath of their offices on Thursday.
The Hindu caught up with prominent citizens in the city requesting them to list out key civic issues that need to be resolved by the ruling council.
“We need more public toilets. Lack of proper sanitary facilities remains a major concern in Kochi,” said architect S. Gopakumar, head of the Better Kochi Response Group, an NGO here.
“Having adequate number of clean public toilets is a standard measurement for any good city. Pedestrian access is another key area. Let the new council take steps to ensure a hassle-free pedestrian movement,” he added.
P.C. Cyriac, former Additional Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu, urged the new councillors to add one more line to the oath they took on Thursday. “They have to assure the public that ward sabhas will be convened every three months without fail and fear or favour. The recommendations given by the people have to be followed-up diligently and implemented without delay,” he said.
Actor Jayasurya wanted the elected representatives to take up issues affecting the poor and the marginalised on a war-footing.
“There are thousands who are even denied a basic facility like drinking water for years. This must change. The gaping potholes, especially near the main traffic signals in the city, have to be filled to ease the severe congestion. Why can’t we have decentralised waste collection facilities in the major junctions in the city to streamline waste management,” he asked.
Chemmanam Chacko, noted poet, asked the councillors to ensure a corruption-free administration. “People are looking forward to a rule free of nepotism and corruption. That should be the first priority of any elected council. We need a transparent system, where people need not bribe anyone to fulfil their needs,” he said.
