India, Italy Deepen Defence Ties; Focus on Technology and Production

Kochi Canals Set for Major Transport and Tourism Upgrade

Kochi is poised for a major transformation as the Kerala government approves the Rs 37.16 billion Integrated Urban Regeneration and Water Transport System, which will revitalise the city’s historic canal network. The ambitious project, led by Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), aims to combine urban renewal, sustainable transport, and tourism development.“I am delighted that the state government has cleared this transformative initiative,” said Loknath Behera, Managing Director of KMRL. “This project will ease monsoon flooding, address long-standing waste management issues, and rejuvenate..

Charminar to Get High-Tech Multi-Level Parking Facility

To tackle long-standing parking challenges around the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has announced the development of a state-of-the-art multi-level parking (MLP) facility under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.The project, spanning 3,500 square metres, will accommodate approximately 145–150 cars and 150 two-wheelers. In addition to easing congestion, the complex will include a dedicated hawker zone and commercial spaces, blending heritage with modern convenience.Charminar, a major tourist attraction, has faced mounting infrastructur..

Chalai Market Revamp May Get Boost From Urban Challenge Scheme

The long-delayed redevelopment of Thiruvananthapuram’s historic Chalai market could soon gather momentum, as the Kerala government seeks funding under the Union government’s newly launched Urban Challenge Scheme. Authorities aim to secure one-third of the project’s estimated Rs 2 billion cost through this Central initiative, recently introduced in the Union Budget.Spearheaded by Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL), the redevelopment is planned in four phases. Phase I, which involves upgrading the internal road network, is nearing completion. However, financial constraints have stall..