THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After months of uncertainty, the construction of a housing complex for residents of Vikalanga Colony under the Thanal housing project is set to begin soon, following the technical sanction from the local self-government department (LSGD) last week.
The approval comes as a relief to 99 families, including various individuals with disabilities, who have faced poor living conditions since construction stalled due to pending permits. The Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS), which secured a Rs 20 crore contract, was previously unable to initiate work because of outdated cost estimates based on the 2018 Delhi Schedule of Rates (DSR). The project was cleared after the estimates were updated to the 2024 DSR.
“The technical approval from LSGD signifies much-needed progress. With the revised estimates in hand, we are ready to commence construction shortly, providing safe and dignified housing to families who have waited far too long,” stated corporation secretary Jahamgeer S.
The two-storey residential complex will be built on two acres in Priyadarshini Nagar, Muttathara, featuring 136 apartments of 550 sq ft each, organized in blocks of four units. The design aims to rehabilitate vulnerable groups, including individuals with disabilities, flood-affected residents, and displaced fishermen.
The initial plan for a three-storey building was revised to comply with height restrictions set by the Airport Authority of India.
This new sanction marks the end of an 18-month delay since the tender was awarded last year. Officials confirmed that preliminary groundwork, including soil tests, has been completed, allowing construction to proceed without further administrative obstacles.
Once started, the project is expected to be completed within 18 months.
