Civic body to renovate beach, heritage zone

KOCHI: The City Corporation has chalked out an elaborate project for the beautification of Fort Kochi beach and heritage zone ahead of the prestigious Kochi Muziris Biennale second edition.

Mayor Tony Chammany convened a meeting of stakeholders on Tuesday to discuss an action plan for the beautification project.

The two-phased project will be carried out with the support of leading hotels, homestays and shops in the heritage zone. Last Saturday, DC had reported about the pathetic plight of Fort Kochi beach and the heritage zone.

The meeting, attended by Dominic Presentation MLA, town planning committee chairman K.J Sohan, works committee chairperson Soumini Jain, division councillor Antony Kureethara has decided to constitute a society, including sponsors, to carry out the scheme, Noted architect and engineer Karl Damschen has been entrusted with preparing a detailed plan of action.

“The project is part of the Mission Kochi 15-08-15 programme. The corporation will provide all support for the cleaning and maintenance of public places,” the Mayor said.

Representatives of major hotel groups, Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Cochin Club, INS Dronacharya also attended the meeting. A meeting with homestay owners will be convened on December 10 to discuss the project.