Excise picks 15 Ernakulam sites for public recreation push
Excise identifies 15 government land parcels in Ernakulam for RELACZ recreation zones to counter substance abuse.
The Excise department has shortlisted 15 locations across Ernakulam district for conversion into public recreational spaces, as part of a broader drive to counter the rising influence of intoxicants in society.
The sites fall under the Statewide RELACZ (Rest & Entertainment in Leisure times At Comfort Zones) project, a component of the state government's 100-day action plan. One government-owned plot has been earmarked in each of the district's 15 excise ranges.
Proposed amenities at these venues include open gyms, volleyball courts, reading rooms, and general hangout spaces. The initiative will be executed in coordination with the Local Self-Government department, with funding expected through corporate social responsibility contributions or sponsorships.
In Kochi city, Marine Drive has been proposed for the facility. Other identified spots include Aanapparambu in Eroor (Thripunithura range), Chellanam and Kuzhuppilly grama panchayats (Mattancherry and Njarackal ranges), Chendamangalam-Paliyam (North Paravur), Idampadam (Varapuzha), Aluva Manappuram, Sehion Junction (Angamaly), Malayattoor Manappattuchira (Kalady), a site near Ayyappa Temple (Perumbavoor), Kadambrayar (Mamala), Manjalloor (Muvattupuzha), Ooramana (Piravom), Ward 3 of Nellikuzhi panchayat (Kothamangalam), and Aanakkayam and Mini Switzerland (Kuttampuzha).
Officials stressed that the list is preliminary. Feasibility will be assessed with local bodies, whose interests and requirements will be factored in. The department has been directed to complete the necessary procedures before October 10, the deadline for the 100-day action plan.