The Times of India                29.05.2013

Municipality gears up to develop Puzhakkara Canal

KOTTAYAM: Puzhakkara Canal and the Ghat in Chingavanam, used to be once a commercially important place. Trade between Alappuzha and the Chingavanam market flourished through this canal in the 70s. But now, the canal is being neglected and is used to dump garbage.

However, not all is lost for the canal and the once famous ghat. The place has still the potential to be developed into a tourist spot.

The canal sandwiched between paddy fields on either side is also the major source of water for farming here.

The mud road on the banks of the canal also makes developmental activities possible. "We are preparing a detailed project for renovating the canal. Once the project is ready it will be presented in the council for approval," said Jos Pallikunnel, ward member. The canal falls in ward 36 of the municipality. "The project will be aimed at developing the place as a tourist spot," he added.

Meanwhile, Kuruvilla Jacob a local resident, remembered that the market used to be one of the main fish markets in Kottayam. "The canal was constructed during the Travancore rule and was called Lakshmipuram Market Landing Canal. Fish was brought here from Alappuzha market while rubber, cardamom and spices was transported to Alappuzha from here," he said.

The 3km-long canal joins Changanassery-Kottayam Public Canal at Vettithara. Though a road has been constructed from the Ghat towards Vettithura, the last 100m of the road is yet to be completed. It is the municipality that has to complete this stretch.

"The canal should be dredged and retaining walls should be constructed," said Shaji Kuruvilla, also a local resident. Meanwhile, the contruction of retaining wall has begun here under the Kuttanad Package. Manoj Joseph, former councillor of the ward, said the road and the canal could be developed as a picnic spot. "Garden, seating arrangements and street lights will change the place into a perfect picnic spot," he said. The canal also provides possibility for pedal boating for the public.

"The canal is fast narrowing. The ghat is becoming a haven for antisocials at night. Bottles and waste are being dumped here," said Kuruvilla Jacob.