Thiruvananthapuram: Indoor and outdoor play areas, art wall boundaries, open gym, toilets, cafes, amphitheatres and a range of playing equipment will soon transform neglected spaces beneath major flyovers in Kerala’s arterial road network into vibrant community hubs equipped with essential public utilities.
The state’s tourism department has officially approved three of the planned twenty futuristic public spaces under overbridges across the State. The project will provide basic amenities for rest and recreation for travellers while also creating leisure and entertainment zones for both tourists and residents to enjoy.
Tourism & Public Works Minister, P A Mohamed Riyas said this initiative aligns with the state government’s Design Policy aimed at enhancing the quality of public spaces along these bridges. He envisions the current under-utilised sections of bridges being converted into dynamic and multifaceted parks—environments where individuals and families can gather, partake in recreational activities such as badminton or volleyball, or simply enjoy a meal amidst nature.
The detailed project reports (DPRs) for the first three sites, located in Chembissery, Athani, and Mulankunnathukavu in Thrissur district, have received clearance from both the tourism and works departments.
“The DPRs for the remaining projects are in the final stages of preparation. These spaces will function as vibrant community gathering points and serve as essential green lungs within our urban landscape,” he stated. “This initiative is an integral aspect of our government’s commitment to creating public spaces that not only enhance community well-being but also play a vital role in combating global warming. The huge popularity and wide public acceptance of the first We Park that came up in Kollam city were instrumental in the government deciding to go ahead with additional We Parks across the state. We aspire for this project to become iconic in its impact and design.”
The project has received authorisation for the installation of lighting, electrical works, plumbing, and comprehensive beautification and landscaping of these innovative spaces, branded as “We Parks”. Kerala Tourism Infrastructure Ltd (KTIL) has been appointed as the primary agency responsible for developing these recreational parks and developing the accompanying facilities.