Kerala: Future of completed projects in limbo as Smart City Mission to end soon

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : The operations of Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL), the special purpose vehicle (SPV) formed for executing projects under the Smart City Mission, are set to wind up by the end of June.

This has raised concerns for the city corporation regarding the future operation and maintenance of the projects implemented under the mission. The civic body is currently deliberating whether to form another SPV for the future operation and maintenance of the handed-over smart city projects or to establish a separate wing under the civic body.

A final decision on the future course of action will be made in a meeting set to be chaired by the chief minister on June 20.

Projects worth Rs 1,500 crore were executed under the Smart City Mission that was launched in 2015. “We need to establish a proper arrangement once the operations of SCTL conclude. Local Self-Government Minister M B Rajesh has suggested forming an SPV. The civic body lacks resources to take over the projects,” said an official.

Approximately `80 crore from the total allotment remains unspent, according to official sources. Despite the winding up of SCTL, the civic body is planning to propose additional projects.

“The project implementation units under SCTL will continue to function until all ongoing projects are completed. There are remaining funds under the Smart City Mission, and we are considering proposing more projects beneficial to the public,” said the source.

Projects such as smart toilets and BMBC (Bituminous Macadam and Bituminous Concrete) roads are currently under consideration.

“We are planning to allocate Rs 50 crore for upgrading corporation roads. Smart toilets are also being considered. All these proposals will be finalised in the next board meeting,” the official added.