Thiruvananthapuram: Uncertainty has gripped several major infrastructure projects in Thiruvananthapuram after Water and Power Consultancy Services (Wapcos Ltd), a mini ratna consultancy under the Union ministry of Jal Shakti, is reportedly preparing to scale down and exit its Kerala operations due to internal administrative issues. The potential withdrawal has raised concerns about the future of high-priority projects, including national health mission works, the Akkulam Lake rejuvenation, Kovalam beach redevelopment and the modernization of General Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, all part of a broader push for sustainable urban development in the capital.Sources indicated that Wapcos issued a circular stating that consultants providing services beyond March 2026 without prior approval would not receive any financial or administrative backing from the company. No extensions have since been granted to consultants by its headquarters and the firm has failed to formalise agreements for any of its major Kerala projects, a development that has fuelled growing scepticism among stakeholders.“The contracts of consultants across various levels have not been renewed, which is a clear indication that the company is preparing to wind up its operations in the state,” a source said. Officials said the absence of formal agreements has kept most projects at the planning stage. “The delay has affected timelines significantly,” another source said.The Akkulam Lake project was envisioned as an ecological restoration initiative involving scientific desilting, pollution control and eco-tourism development. Similarly, the Kovalam beach redevelopment aimed to strengthen the destination’s global appeal through improved amenities, coastal protection and sustainable waste management. Meanwhile, the General Hospital modernisation, intended to expand capacity and upgrade medical facilities, has been further hampered by inadequate staff deployment from the Wapcos side, dimming public hopes for improved healthcare infrastructure.Industry observers said Wapcos has executed several water resource and infrastructure projects across India and abroad, earning a reputation for technical expertise. However, internal challenges and operational constraints appear to have affected its ability to continue projects in Kerala.Infrastructure experts warn that the exit of a central public sector consultancy at this stage could severely disrupt project continuity. “The state govt will have to urgently explore alternative agencies or initiate fresh tenders to prevent further setbacks,” an infrastructure expert said.With no official confirmation from Wapcos headquarters, uncertainty persists. Govt sources indicate that discussions are expected soon to assess the situation and ensure that development in the capital is not stalled indefinitely.
