Thiruvananthapuram: A new infrastructure initiative is being planned to tap the tourism potential of the northern coastal belt of Thiruvananthapuram, with a boat jetty and wellness park proposed at Meerankadavu in Kadakkavoor–Anchuthengu panchayat. The project aims to develop the area beneath the Meerankadavu bridge, which connects Kadakkavoor and Anchuthengu, into a tourism and recreation hub with improved public amenities and water transport facilities. Estimated to cost Rs 1.58 crore, the project will be implemented under the West Coast Canal tourism initiative as part of the Nava Kerala Mission. As part of the plan, authorities will construct a modern boat jetty and develop a wellness park beneath the bridge. The approach road leading to the jetty will also be renovated to improve accessibility for visitors and local residents. Several public amenities have been proposed under the project, including a children’s park, rest area, modern toilets, stone benches, safety fencing and street lighting. CCTV cameras will be installed to enhance security and ensure better monitoring of the area. Murals will also be painted on the pillars of the Meerankadavu bridge to improve the visual appeal of the space and create a more attractive public environment. The proposed jetty is expected to support boat services connecting Meerankadavu with Muthalappozhi harbour and Ponnumthuruthu, a scenic island destination known for its backwaters and historic temple. Officials believe the introduction of boat services will strengthen water-based tourism in the region while improving connectivity between coastal and backwater destinations. Chirayinkeezhu MLA V Sashi said the project would help unlock the tourism potential of the coastal belt and attract more visitors to the region. “Once the infrastructure facilities are in place, the project is expected to attract tourists from different parts of the state and create employment opportunities for local residents through tourism-related activities,” he said. Anchuthengu panchayat member S Praveen Chandra said the project would also address long-standing issues related to the neglected space beneath the bridge. “The area under the bridge has remained largely unused for years and is often used for dumping waste during the night. This attracts stray dogs and causes inconvenience to pedestrians and commuters using the road. Once the project is completed, the space can be transformed into a scenic public spot,” he said. He added that the development would help convert the neglected area into a clean and functional public space while improving recreational facilities in the panchayat.
