Kozhikode’s ongoing urbanization is creating a complex web of problems for its residents, including a noticeable rise in air pollution, various public health concerns, and increasing tensions in the labor sector. This stark assessment comes from P.P. Anil Kumar, a distinguished Professor and Chairman of the Centre of Excellence in Urban Planning and Design at the National Institute of Technology-Calicut. He shared these insights while delivering the keynote address at a recent event held in memory of the revered environmentalist A. Achuthan.
During his address, Professor Anil Kumar highlighted a critical oversight: Kozhikode has largely failed to initiate meaningful discussions about development that are intrinsically linked to a long-term master plan. He pointed out the missed opportunities, such as not developing the historic Conolly Canal into a significant tourist attraction. To steer the city towards sustainable growth, he urged authorities to implement stricter controls on private vehicle usage and to prioritize the creation of dedicated, safe pathways for cyclists and pedestrians. Furthermore, he stressed that urban infrastructure, particularly road networks, should be redesigned with a strong emphasis on boosting and optimizing public transportation systems.
The commemorative event, where these vital discussions took place, was jointly organized by the Chavara Cultural Centre and the Society for the Protection of the Environment Kerala.