Kollam Launches 'Susthira Kollam' Sustainable Development Project
Minister Bindhu Krishna launched 'Susthira Kollam', an integrated people's development project with eight sub-projects, to transform Kollam into Kerala's first climate-resilient constituency.
Kollam: Minister for Labour and Women & Child Development Bindhu Krishna on Tuesday inaugurated 'Susthira Kollam', an integrated people's development project she is spearheading as the local legislator, aimed at fostering sustainable growth in the Kollam constituency. The official project logo was also unveiled and a Kollam wetland atlas released at the ceremony.
Speaking at the event, the Minister said true development is inherently rooted in the preservation of nature, a principle she described as the cornerstone of the initiative. She added that 'Susthira Kollam' goes beyond conventional planning to represent a comprehensive blueprint for the future, belonging to all who cherish the region. A meticulous project report will be prepared by distinctly demarcating soil profiles, water bodies, wetlands, ecological zones, and public spaces, she said.
The core objective is to transform the Kollam constituency into Keralam's pioneering climate-resilient territory anchored in a circular economy. The initiative operates through a collaborative framework uniting local governing bodies, various State departments, and research institutions, with the Land Use department steering technical coordination and documentation.
Eight sub-projects
The project is structured around eight principal sub-projects. Key environmental interventions include 'Water Positive Kollam', designed to advance water conservation and elevate groundwater reserves; 'Zero Waste Kollam', dedicated to scientific waste management; 'Energy Kollam', aimed at shifting public infrastructure and streetscapes toward green energy; and 'Blue-Green Kollam', which harmonises agricultural advancement with urban greening.
Complementing these are 'Aarogya Kollam', focused on establishing sustainable pedestrian zones and parks for public well-being; 'Green Livelihood', engineered to generate income and employment through eco-friendly enterprises; and 'Vanitha Sauhrudha Kollam', championing women's empowerment via targeted entrepreneurship and foundational infrastructure development. The modernisation of the Kollam Port has been integrated as a vital sub-project.
To execute this vision, the Land Use department will deploy Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to conduct a comprehensive resource survey across the constituency.
Mayor A. K. Hafiz, who presided over the function, observed that by bringing together various department heads and public representatives to make collaborative decisions, hurdles in development matters can be resolved swiftly. District Collector Anie Jula Thomas, who also spoke at the event, said the initiative will completely transform the district's landscape, emphasising that the coordinated efforts of multiple departments are vital for its successful implementation.