Thiruvananthapuram: The grand inauguration of Kottilakonam Pond, which was supposed to showcase its ₹1.5 crore renovation, has been marred by controversy. Locals, sceptical about the project’s true progress, voiced their concerns in a series of protests, leading the ruling committee of the corporation to cancel the event.

The renovation project, originally aimed at reviving the once-neglected pond in Peroorkada, has raised several questions. Allegedly, the authorities rushed to plan the inauguration ahead of the upcoming local body elections, without ensuring the pond had been fully restored. The project had been allotted ₹1 crore as its first instalment. However, after building a concrete wall and installing fencing, the funds were depleted. An additional ₹50 lakh was later approved to complete the remaining work. The inauguration was slated to happen after the contractor assured that the pond had been cleaned of sludge and waste. Notices announcing the event were sent out, with the Mayor scheduled to preside over the function.

However, public backlash was swift. Opposition parties, along with local residents, protested against the hasty inauguration of a project they believed was incomplete. The pond, which was still covered in weeds and overgrown vegetation, did not reflect the promised revival. When protestors gathered at the venue, the ruling committee had no choice but to call off the event.

Further funds will be needed to clear the remaining sludge from the pond. Locals also argue that the pond, once a hub for bathing and agricultural purposes, has suffered from years of neglect due to the corporation's inaction. They also point out that the pond, which once spanned 1.48 acres, has been significantly reduced in size as part of the restoration effort.

The postponed inauguration has sparked accusations from opposition parties, who claim that the ruling committee is attempting to inaugurate unfinished projects to gain political favour just before the election notification.