KOCHI: The Goshree Islands Development Authority (GIDA) has not been functioning for more than two years affecting the development activities in the islands. The Authority formed for the integrated development of the islands in the Kochi backwaters has long been defunct and has failed to take up any major infrastructure projects in recent times. The last meeting of the general council of GIDA was convened in January this year by former chief minister Oommen Chandy.
Though the meeting constituted a subcommittee to prioritize projects for the development of the islands and to mobilize funds, no follow up measures were taken. The meeting was organized a year and nine months after the last one. After the new government taking charge, reconstitution of the general council, chaired by the chief minister, has not been done. Some of the major projects which have fallen behind include the Chennoor – Kothad Bridge, Moolambilly – Chathanad Road, Valiya Kadamakudy – Chathanad Bridge, Moolampilly – Pizhala Bridge and the drinking water project proposed for Varapuzha and Kadamakudy islands at a cost of Rs 30 crore. Due to delay in land acquisition, the project costs have been revised many times. Some of the projects were conceived back in 2006.
