Thevara, Kochi

The Punjathodu canal in Kochi is facing severe pollution due to the accumulation of plastic waste. Despite previous clean-up efforts and High Court directives, residents allege that waste is being released back into the canal without proper disposal, leading to blockages and potential health hazards.

The Kochi Corporation's surplus budget for 2026-27 prioritizes infrastructure development, social welfare, and environmental protection. It projects a surplus of ₹132.96 crore, with a total revenue of ₹1,388.13 crore and expenditure of ₹1,255.16 crore.

A new eight-storey super-specialty block with 842 beds and 16 operation theatres has been inaugurated at the Government Medical College Hospital, Kalamassery, Kochi. This upgrade to healthcare infrastructure, costing Rs 286.66 crore, aims to address the insufficiency of critical treatments and expand services, benefiting patients from Kochi and surrounding regions.