KOCHI: With the chairman position of Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) remaining vacant for more than a month, many Kochi-based organisations are calling for an appointing of a new head for effective implementation of projects. “It has been a month since GCDA going ahead with its projects without a chairman. As the agency holds a vital role in Kochi’s future developments, the government should appoint an expert to execute the proposals in time,” said Felix J Pulludan, president of Greater Cochin Development Watch, a Kochi-based watchdog.
In a letter submitted to the chief minister, the organisation has demanded to disband the agency if the situation remains the same. “It’s pointless to spend crores of rupees as salary for over 200 officials who can not even look after existing projects. Other than creating red tape, the agency, which was established in 1976, has not been able to contribute anything to the growth of the city in the last few decades. Similarly, Goshree Development Authority (GIDA), established in 1994, has also become a white elephant these days,” he said.
With the lack of initiatives from both agencies, Greater Cochin Development Watch has demanded a more proactive approach from the government. “GCDA has announced ambitious projects like Goshree-Mamangalam Road, Thammanam-Pulleppady Road widening, Ring Road and Bund Road projects around four decades ago, nothing has materialised so far. On the other hand, GIDA hasn’t been able to improve the life of Kochi’s islets after the construction of Goshree bridges. What’s the point in continuing with such agency without no results?” asked Felix.
While significant projects under the agency are getting delayed, Better Kochi Response Group, an NGO, has demanded to merge both agencies into Kochi Metropolitan Transport Authority (KMTA). “Though KMTA has formed to solely look after the transportation sector of the city, a spruced-up body on the lines of Delhi Development Authority with the participation of experts can effectively plan the future of the city. There is no logic in continuing with the agencies in its current format,” said S Gopakumar, president, Better Kochi Response Group (BKRG).
“While local bodies like Kochi Corporation can look after the upkeep of existing facilities, the Metropolitan Authority can come up with scientific planning for every sector. Instead of continuing with political appointments, the government should consider the formation of a broader development authority which chart out the development of Kochi city and its suburbs,” he added.
‘LSGD MIN WILL DECIDE’
A source close to GCDA has clarified that the final decision regarding the appointment of the chairman will be taken by the Minister for Local Self Governments. “It’s up to the minister to decide. As it is a political appointment, the suggestion of the CPIM state committee will also be considered in the matter,” said the source.