Water Authority demolishes PWD road without permission in Kayamkulam

The Kerala Water Authority's contractors demolished a Public Works Department (PWD) road built to BMBC standards without permission, sparking controversy. The PWD has filed a police complaint over the incident. The road was broken at Aanakunniel Junction near Puthiyidam Temple on the Shaheedarpally-Texmo Junction road in Kayamkulam to repair a leaking drinking water pipe. The road was only three years old, and the contractors used a JCB to dig it up before covering the hole after repairs. Residents protested upon seeing the road being dug early Saturday morning and alerted PWD officials. While the Water Authority claims it sent an online application and acted on instructions, the PWD denies receiving any request and states proper procedures, including permission and compensation, were not followed. The PWD estimates a loss of 30,000 rupees.