In view of mounting complaints over severe traffic congestion outside the Kottayam railway station, the district administration has decided to initiate stringent measures to streamline the traffic and curb unauthorised parking.
The District Development Committee (DDC) , headed by the District Collector, has directed the police, regional transport authorities (RTO) and Kottayam municipality to take strict stringent measures against the unauthorised parking of autorickshaws outside the railway station, which has been identified as a major cause of traffic snarls.
Traffic congestion in front of the station, particularly during peak hours, frequently results in long tailbacks extending up to Nagampadam bus stand. Commuters often take several minutes to negotiate the nearly 100-metre stretch in front of the station.
The meeting also decided to initiate action against auto rickshaw operating from the stand inside the railway station who refuse to accept passengers travelling short distances. Passengers have repeatedly complained that several drivers decline such trips.
Regarding the traffic issues at Kodimatha bridge, Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department (Bridges) informed the Committee that the asphalt work on the second bridge is nearing completion and the bridge will soon be opened to traffic soon. Repairs to the old bridge can begin only after the new bridge is opened to traffic, thereby eliminating the existing safety concerns.
The Executive Engineer of the Minor Irrigation department informed the committee that an estimate of ₹58 lakh has been prepared for the removal of water hyacinths in the streams in the Vaikom area. The Executive Engineer of the Major Irrigation Department said an estimate has also been prepared for deepening the Alappuzha - Changanassery canal at Changanassery and the project has been included in the priority list for the 2026-27 financial year.
Kottayam municipal secretary informed the Committee that the operators of the unauthorised roadside eateries in the town have been directed to remove the structures voluntarily. Those failing to comply will face eviction by the municipality from August 1.
The meeting also directed the Civil Supplies Department to investigate complaints regarding overcharging for LPG cylinders and take appropriate action. It further decided to take action against shops that fail to display the price lists or are found tampering with weighing machines.
Additional District Magistrate Solly Antony presided over the meeting held at the District Planning Committee Hall.
Published - July 26, 2026 07:15 pm IST