Thiruvananthapuram: Administrative sanction has been granted for the ₹9.26 crore project aimed at rehabilitating traders displaced due to the development of the Vattiyoorkavu Junction in Thiruvananthapuram.

Earlier, administrative approval had been accorded for ₹6.50 crore in the first phase of the project for this financial year. However, a working group meeting held on June 28 recommended allocating the remaining amount from next year’s budget. Acting on this demand, the Local Self-Government Department (LSGD) has now granted sanction for the full amount. The first phase of the project includes shops for 58 traders who have requested rehabilitation, along with an open-air auditorium and a park.

Project execution by TRIDA
The Thiruvananthapuram Development Authority (TRIDA) will implement the rehabilitation project. A total of 2.37 acres has already been acquired to construct the building complex, designed in the style of a shopping complex. Land acquisition cost amounted to ₹88,38,37,048. The District Collector handed over the land documents to TRIDA Chairperson K C Vikraman on February 12.

Project so far
The development includes the Shasthamangalam–Mannarakkonam, Mannarakkonam–Peroorkkada, Mannarakkonam–Vazhayila Roads, and the Vattiyoorkavu Junction. Approximately 1,000 traders were evicted for the project, of which all except 58 opted for compensation.

Commenting on he project, V K Prashanth MLA, stated that the tendering process for the rehabilitation project will begin once approval is granted by the KIIFB Board. Authorities also noted that demolition of structures along the Shasthamangalam–Mannarakkonam and Mannarakkonam–Peroorkkada Roads is nearing completion.

The Public Works Department (PWD) is responsible for the development of the Vattiyoorkavu Junction and the associated roads, while the LSGD will handle the rehabilitation of the evicted traders.