States » SouthPosted at: Nov 14 2026 6:11PM


Integrated approach needed to revive Akkulam lake and protect entire basin: Biju Prabhakar

Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 14 (UNI) Former Kerala Government Secretary Biju Prabhakar has called for an integrated, science-based approach to restore Akkulam Lake, stressing that the water body cannot be rejuvenated without protecting and rehabilitating its entire catchment basin.
He was speaking at a strategic consultation on ‘Shaping a Resilient Thiruvananthapuram’, jointly organised by the Trivandrum Management Association (TMA) and the Professional Group for Sustainable Development of Thiruvananthapuram (PGSDT) at TMA House, Kowdiar.
Moderating the discussion, Prabhakar emphasised the need for scientific planning, coordination among institutions and sustained efforts to translate development proposals into tangible results.
The consultation featured a presentation by PGSDT on the proposed Akkulam–Veli Basin Development Project (AVB-DP), which envisages an integrated development strategy covering the entire 150-sq-km basin.
The region is facing multiple environmental and urban challenges, including rapid urbanisation, inadequate drainage networks, untreated sewage discharge, solid waste pollution, encroachments, wetland degradation and recurring floods.
Experts at the consultation pointed out that isolated clean-up and restoration measures would not address the underlying problems, underscoring the need for a comprehensive basin-level intervention.
PGSDT presented a preliminary vision for developing a climate-resilient ‘Akkulam Leisure and Wellness Valley’, incorporating wetland restoration, improved drainage systems, shoreline protection, sustainable mobility and eco-tourism.
The proposed initiative also seeks to ensure the active participation of local communities and fishing groups in the development and conservation process.
TMA President Sunil Kumar M, in his opening remarks, called for moving beyond individual clean-up programmes towards a coordinated mission to restore and protect the natural ecosystem for future generations.
TMA Secretary Dr Elango P also addressed the gathering, while Rohit Philip, Chair of the TMA ESG Committee, proposed the vote of thanks.
The consultation is seen as an initiative to bring environmental conservation, urban resilience and improved quality of life within a common development framework.
The Akkulam–Veli Basin Development Project is currently at the conceptual stage, and its proposals are subject to detailed studies, statutory clearances and government approval.
UNI DS
Tags: #Integrated approach needed to revive Akkulam lake and protect entire basin: Biju Prabhakar
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