INTRODUCTION: The project aims to strengthen the integration of biodiversity management at all levels of governance and facilitate cooperation between national and sub-national authorities for ecosystem management in urban regions. It is funded by Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety (BMUB) under their International Climate Initiative (IKI). The project is in implementation in three countries- Brazil, India and Tanzania and has a duration of four years (2016 – 2020). ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, South Asia is the implementing agency project in India. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, has identified Kochi as the project model city and Panaji and Mangaluru as the satellite cities.
INCEPTION ACTIVITIES IN KOCHI: The project has been approved by the Kochi Municipal Corporation council through a special council meeting held on 21st August 2017, following which an MoU between the Kochi Municipal Corporation and ICLEI- Local Governments for Sustainability, South Asia had been signed. The Centre for Heritage , Environment and Development has been appointed by the Council of the Kochi Municipal Corporation as the nodal office in Kochi (on behalf of the Kochi Municipal Corporation) for the project.
WORK UNDERTAKEN: The first phase of the project involved the development of baseline regarding biodiversity management within the project countries and city-regions through a scoping study. A few of the activities have been completed while some are ongoing:
- Key stakeholders (persons and institutions) in and around Kochi were identified.
- Discussions (one to one) were held with the identified stakeholders and officials of Kochi Municipal Corporation.
- Foreign experts visited the city and held discussions with city officials, college teachers and some experts in the area.
- Interviews with experts and other stakeholders (about 50 experts and 10 institutions or organisations) on different aspects of biodiversity and governance were held.
- Several relevant baseline reports, maps and data were reviewed.
- Preliminary mapping of mangroves and wetlands in the Greater Kochi region was done.
- First stakeholder consultation workshop to discuss results of information collected through primary and secondary data sources was held on 27th October 2017; The Hon’ble mayor presided over the workshop and Dr S.C. Joshi, Chairman, Kerala State Biodiversity Board, was the Chief Guest. Over 100 stakeholders and experts participated in the workshop. Mangalavanam and back waters were identified as critical ecosystems.
- Biodiversity awareness programme named “Communicating biodiversity conservation with school students in Kochi was held. Around 10 schools in Kochi participated in this initiative. The initiative programme included :-
- Presentation in each school on significance of biodiversity
- Biodiversity quiz in each school
- Biodiversity register preparation for a school,
- Butterfly park development in a school and
- An inter school painting competition.
- The first two programmes and the fifth programme have been completed in all school; third and fourth programmes are going on in the selected school.
- An Expert stakeholder workshop on ecosystem services was held on 3rd April 2018 which had participation from international and national experts .
- Trees in Subhash Park – A GIS based tree map has been prepared wherein tree species have been identified. The details of the same will be brought in the form of a hand book which is ongoing. This will help support the initiative of the Kochi Municipal Corporation on improving open green spaces.
- Development of scoping report- The process is on going
- Natural asset map development- ongoing (GPS field survey for GIS based high resolution natural asset map for Kochi is going on).
UPCOMING PROJECTS:
- City Biodiversity Index
- People’s Biodiversity Register
- Biodiversity Park
- Biodiversity Park – Mangrove Park : Feasibility Study
News, Ongoing Projects, Projects
- Tender Notice – BHAAV 2024
Tender Notice – BHAAV 2024
- Request for Quotation – Foldable Wheelchair
Request for Quotation – Foldable Wheelchair
- Tender – Koithara Park Toilet
Tender document-Koithara Park Toilet
- VACANCY
- Request for Quotation for E-KART
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- Request for Quotation – Multifunctional Couches
Request for quotation for multifunctional couches
- Request for Quotation – 125 KVA DG SET
Request for quotation for DG SET The last date for submission of the quotation extended
- VACANCY
VACANCY – DRIVER CUM OFFICE ATTENDANT VACANCY – ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT
- Tender Notice: Civil works for Dialysis Center, Lab, and Store room at Palluruthy Government Taluk Hospital in Division 19 of Kochi Municipal Corporation
Tender Notice: Civil works for Dialysis Center, Lab, and Store room at Palluruthy Government Taluk Hospital in Division 19 of Kochi Municipal Corporation Bidders are requested to go through all the documents for Bid submission provided below: NOTICE INVITING TENDER FORM OF TENDER BID DOCUMENT BoQ PRELIMINARY AGREEMENT AFFIDAVIT
- Request for Quotation – UPS
Click here to view the details. Last date for submission of Quotation extended
- Tender Notice for Supply and Installation of lights
Tender Notice for Supply and Installation of flood lights
- Tender Notice for Solar Panel
Tender notice for solar panel installation
- Tender Notice-Biogas plant
Tender Notice – Biogas plant
- Request for Quotation – Desktop, Laptop, printer, CCTV system with camera
Please click here for details. Last date for submission of quotation extended
- Request for Quotation- Dialyser Reprocessing Machine
Please click here for details. Last date for Submission of Quotation Extended
- Call for tender – Office equipments
Tender Notice – Office Equipments
- TOSCA Installation and Demonstration
The TOSCA installation and demonstration was held at Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development (C-HED) as part of TOSCA India – the Toolkit for Open and Sustainable City Planning & Analysis project implemented with the support of Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. The project is envisioned to address the critical urban challenges and
- Challenge Lab Kochi
Challenge Lab Kochi – A technical workshop was organized by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH that aimed to develop a granular understanding of city’s needs and priorities, challenges and enablers for setting up the Urban Observatory as well as programming and management of public open spaces. The event was formally inaugurated by the
- Kochi – City of Design
The first Steering Committee of Kochi – City of Design.
- Urban Sustainability and Smart City (USSC) Event
The India-EU Urban Partnership (IEUP) project between the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India and the European Union aims to support the implementation of smart, resilient and sustainable urban development in India under the ‘Road Map -2025’ of India-EU bilateral co-operation. In an interaction in early 2022, the Government of Kerala and
- Visit of Dutch Water Experts
As part of the ongoing discussions the Hon’ble Mayor has been having with Sri. Venu Rajamony IFS, Officer on Special Duty (External Cooperation), Government of Kerala and Former Ambassador of India to the Netherlands and the Dutch water experts, a delegation of experts visited areas of Kochi city being inundated during heavy rains. The purpose
- EcoLogistics project – Inauguration and handing over of Zero- Emission Electric Freight Autos
Kochi showcases a way forward to address the complex problems of decarbonising urban logistics, air pollution, climate change, and gender inequality. Hon’ble Justice Shri Devan Ramachandran of the Kerala High Court and Hon’ble Mayor Adv.M Anilkumar inaugurated a demonstration project on September 15, 2022, to promote zero-emission light goods vehicles for last-mile deliveries under EcoLogistics
- Call for Tender
Tender Notice – Bhaav
- Training programme on the vacant land survey and retrieving land survey details from GIS platform
Training programme on the vacant land survey and retrieving land survey details from GIS platform held as part of the ‘Rapid Response Policy Engagement’ project.
- Inauguration and handing over of Zero- Emission Electric Freight Autos
Kochi Municipal Corporation showcases a way forward to address the complex problems of decarbonising urban logistics, air pollution, climate change, and gender inequality. Hon’ble Justice Shri Devan Ramachandran of the Kerala High Court and Hon’ble Mayor of Kochi Shri Adv.M Anilkumar inaugurated a demonstration project on September 15, 2022, to promote zero-emission light goods
- VACANT LAND SURVEY – DATA HANDING OVER CEREMONY
The vacant land survey data handing over ceremony held as part of the ‘Rapid Response Policy Engagement’ project done with the support of University of Reading, UK and SCMS School of Architecture. The is project is co-ordinated by c-hed.
- MoU signed between c-hed and MG University
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed today between the Centre for Urban Studies and Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development (c-hed) to work together on urban development, public governance, urban studies and research activities. The programme was attended by the Hon’ble Mayor of Kochi Adv. M Anilkumar, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of M G University
- Stakeholder discussion on “Transforming adoption of E-Autos in Indian Cities” initiative
The stakeholder discussion on “Transforming adoption of E-Autos in Indian Cities” initiative held at Kochi Municipal Corporation council hall.
- Towards Plastic Less Kochi Campaign
Prabhat Pheri and the inauguration of the Plastic waste collection box held as part of ‘Towards Plastic Less Kochi Campaign’ at Ernakulam Boat Jetty. Prabhat Pheri held as part of ‘Towards Plastic Less Kochi Campaign’ at Thevara.
- Inauguration of setting up of Water Treatment Plant at Subhash Bose Park and the Kick off of ‘Towards Plastic Less Kochi’ Campaign
The inauguration of setting up of Water Treatment Plant at Subhash Bose Park and the Kick off of ‘Towards Plastic Less Kochi’ Campaign were held at Subhash Bose Park on July 8, 2022.
- Inauguration of the Mini Nature Interpretation Centre and the release of the Handbook on ‘Trees of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry
The inauguration of the Mini Nature Interpretation Centre and the release of the Handbook on ‘Trees of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry’ were held at Subhash Bose Park.
- World Environment Day 2022 – Kawaki project launch
The launch of the Kawaki project as part of the World Environment Day celebration was held at Subhash Bose park, Kochi
- European Union – IURC delegation visits the Greater Cochin Development Authority
The European Union – IURC delegation visited the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) and held discussion with the Chairman Sri. K Chandran Pillai and team.
- European Union – IURC delegation visits Cochin Port Trust
The European Union – IURC delegation visited the Cochin Port Trust and held discussion with the Chairman Dr. M. Beena IAS and team.
- European Union – IURC delegation visits Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research, CUSAT
The European Union – IURC delegation visited the Advanced Centre for Atmospheric Radar Research of the Cochin University for Science and Technology and held discussion with Dr. Abhilash. S, Director, and team.
- EU – IURC delegation visits CSML
The visiting EU – IURC delegation had a detailed discussion on Kochi’s smart city project and programmes. Sri. Shanavas IAS , CEO , CSML briefed the delegation about the ongoing projects. They also discussed with the team the programmes and area of cooperation within IURC.
- Mullassery Canal Project – Team visit
Ms. Teresa Kerber, the Project Manager for SUD-SC Phase II project of GIZ visited Kochi to meet with the Hon’ble Mayor and Dr. Rajan Chedambath, Director, c-hed. She was accompanid by Ms. Charlotte Pusch, GIZ, Ms. Fathim Rashna, GIZ, Mr. Esakkiraj S, GIZ. The team also visited the Ente Kochi Urban Design Competition site –
- Morgenstadt Global Smart Cities Initiative (MGI) – Sustainable Neighbourhood project
SITE VISIT AND STAKEHOLDER WORKSHOP As part of the ongoing Morgenstadt Global Smart Cities Initiative (MGI) – Sustainable Neighbourhood project, the project team from Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering (IAO), Stuttgart, University of Stuttgart, National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) visited Kochi. The team along with the c-hed visited the project area at Elamakkara North
- TUMI – WAY FINDING SIGNAGES INAUGURATION
Kochi Ithile way finding signage project was created based on Reimagining Fort KochiProposal and and Transport Strategy document by SMART-SUT for West Kochi Island withpartners including Kochi Municipal Corporation, Centre for Heritage, Environment andDevelopment (C-HED), and GIZ India , through the Transformative Urban Mobility Initiative(TUMI), funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and
- KAWAKI PROJECT INAUGURATION
Nature Based Solutions is one of the few important verticals in which Kochi Municipal Corporation is focused on. In this regard Kochi Municipal Corporation is launching the KAVAKI initiative, which focuses on increasing the cities green cover by developing urban grooves of native trees in a data-based approach focusing on the most heat stress vulnerable
The city of Kochi is an important place of employment for migrant workers in Kerala. The migrant workers in any urban centre are often forced to live in unhygienic and unsafe conditions. The case to some extent in Kochi is the same. They are often denied the access to safe and fair accommodation in the
- Setting up of Integrated Support Platform for Women Entrepreneurship in Kochi
Empowering women is essential to the health and social development of families, communities and cities. With an emphasis on the economic and social upliftment and security of women, Kochi Municipal Corporation with the support of GIZ India launched the Women Entrepreneurship Project ‘Venture Initiation Program – Women (VIP: Women)’under the SDG and Governance component of
- KOCHI ECO CHALLENGE PROJECT
On the occasion of the World Environment Day 2021, the Kochi Municipal Corporation is launching the ‘Kochi Eco Challenge’ (Kochi Eco System Challenge) project in collaboration with District Haritha Keralam Mission and Suchitwa Mission under the leadership of St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam and C-HED, the Environmental Division of the Kochi Municipal Corporation. The ‘Kochi Eco
- Auto Ambulance service
An emergency service to cater to the needs of COVID patients, especially transport of COVID patients to hospitals, supply of medicines, oximeter, oxygen cylinder and thermometer and to patients houses, etc kick started yesterday in the city. Covid relief works have been on the radar for Kochi municipal corporation and C-HED has been providing backend
- Policy Presentation- Rapid Response Policy Engagement – Affordable Rental Housing for Internal Migrants
The city of Kochi is an important place of employment for migrant workers in Kerala. Workers from Tamil Nadu have been living and working in the city for decades. In addition, workers from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and many more can be found in the city today. The migrant workers
- Hybrid Workshop – The Morgenstadt Global Smart City Innovation Lab
Kochi is one among the Indian cities selected for ‘The Morgenstadt Global Smart City Innovation Lab’. The project is being coordinated and implemented in the city by the C-HED with the technical support of the University of Stuttgart and Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering (IAO), Stuttgart. The other prominent institutions that have partnered in this
- Subhash Bose Park Reopening
The prestigious Subhash Bose Park is maintained by Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development. The park is a fine example of our efforts . It serves as the green lungs of the core city and a space for recreation . It is now alive and vibrant with music concerts , performing arts and other cultural
- VISIT OF CONSUL GENERAL OF FRANCE AND AFD INDIA DIRECTOR
The Consul General of France in India Ms. Lise TALBOT BARRE and Agence Francaise de Development (AFD) India Director Bruno Bosle visited the North-South Mobility Corridor project area during their recent visit to Kochi.
- ECOLOGISTICS STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION MEETING
Today the whole world is facing serious climate change issues, as a result of uncontrolled carbon emissions from various sectors mainly transport sector. Our Kochi is one of the areas that suffers the most from its bitter effects. Unscientific transportation is one of the major problems facing Kochi in this regard. Based on this, several
- RAPID RESPONSE POLICY ENGAGEMENT – ONLINE COLLOQUIUM
An online workshop on ‘Explore Issues and Solutions for Solving Housing Challenges of Migrant Workers in Kochi, Kerala’ was organized as part of Rapid Response Policy Engagement project on March 16, 2021 as part of the comprehensive planning of the recommendations received from the stakeholder workshop held on March 5, 2021. Hon’ble Mayor Adv. M
- URBAN ENERGY TRANSITION – STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION WORKSHOP
Kochi, one of the major urban agglomerations in the state is seriously pondering on the need for sustainable energy transition. It has been very proactively discussing and engaging with various stakeholders to identify the opportunities and challenges of clean energy projects within the city. In this regard, the urban energy transition project, the brainchild of
- RAPID RESPONSE POLICY ENGAGEMENT – STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION WORKSHOP
The city of Kochi is an important place of employment for migrant workers in Kerala. Workers from Tamil Nadu have been living and working in the city for decades. In addition, workers from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and many more can be found in the city today. The migrant workers
- CANOPY ART-HOLIC PAINTERS CAMP
Kochi Corporation in association with Kerala Lalithakala Academy conducted Canopy Art-Holic Art Camp of painters on March 4th -6th, 2021 at the Chatiyath Queens Walkway. The three day camp organised as part of the ambitious Arts Space Kochi (ASK) project had 10 renowned artists brushing the colours of the expression of nature on to the
- Road Safety Event organized under ASK
As part of the Road Safety Month campaign, Kochi Municipal Corporation (KMC) jointly with Transport Department, Government of Kerala and Kochi Metropolitan Transport Authority (KMTA) have launched the Road Safety awareness event in Kochi on February 16, 2021. The event was supported by Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development (C-HED) under the initiative ‘Art Space
- ASK MUSICAL EVENT AT KOCHI DURBAR HALL GROUND AND KOITHARA PARK
As part of Arts Space Kochi a live music events was held at Durbar Hall and Koithara Park in Kochi on February 14, 2021. The performances were done by the music band of young techies named ‘Untagged’. The event was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Mayor Adv. M. Anil Kumar. The event was held in association
- ARTS SPACE KOCHI PROGRAMME LAUNCH
Kochi Corporation in association with the district administration in coordination with the Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development (C-HED), launched Arts Space Kochi (ASK) on February 8, 2021 Monday in an effort to encourage arts, particularly in public spaces. The project kicked off with an inaugural event at the cultural corner of Kochi Metro Rail
- Biodiversity strategy and action plan for Kochi
The Kochi Corporation has prepared a local biodiversity strategy and action plan which sets 29 goals for the city to achieve on biodiversity conservation by 2025. The city is the first in the country to develop a ‘scientifically informed and participatory’ action plan, according to Mayor Soumini Jain’s message in the plan. The plan was
- Kochi City Biodiversity Index
The City Biodiversity Index and Illustrated Natural Asset Map of Kochi Municipal Corporation, prepared under INTERACT- Bio project was released by Hon’ble Mayor Soumini Jain. Kochi is one the very few cities in India who have developed the City Biodiversity Index. The City Biodiversity Index of Kochi has been developed with support from ICLEI-Local
- EnteKochi Urban Design Competition
Kochi Municipal Corporation (KMC), with the support and cooperation of GIZ India, under the “Sustainable Urban Development – Smart Cities” (SUD-SC) project, has launched the ‘EnteKochi-Competition’ – a novel approach to a national-level ‘Urban Design Competition’ (UDC), that aims to jointly ‘design the future city’ of Kochi. Multi-disciplinary teams of professionals from diverse backgrounds (Social
- Green Corridor Project (N-S Corridor)
Mobilise Your City (MYC) project, an initiative of the Union Government to reduce Green House Gas (GHG) emissions related to urban transport. Kochi is one of the cities selected for the MYC project. Urban Mass Transport Company (UMTC) has been entrusted with the task of implementing the project in Kochi. Under the MYC programme, the
- C-HED at 10th World Urban Forum
Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development (C-HED) director Dr. Rajan Chedambath presented our organisations case at the 10th World Urban Forum in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This competition is designed to share and exchange valuable knowledge and experiences between cities all around the world, with C-HED representing Kochi this year. Joining Dr. Rajan on stage and
- Water Conservation Workshop
The Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development (c-hed) and Ashoka Trust for Reserarch in Ecology and Environment (ATREE), organised a 1 day workshop where we discussed and deliberated on measures for water conservation including developing awareness and strategies to help fight climate change. The event was supported by the Kochi Municipal Corporation and Department of
- Mapathon – Cities4forests
The Kochi Municipal Corporation in association with the World Resources Institute India organized a ‘Mapathon’ in coordination with the Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development, as part of the Cities4Forests project from 9 to 11 January, 2020 at St. Teresa’s College, Kochi to develop monitoring mechanism in Kochi and enhance community participation in restoration. Kochi
- Summer-Winter-School , CEPT University, Ahmedabad
The Summer Winter School Program of The Premier Habitat University of India , CEPT for 2019 begins in Kochi. This year the program focuses on Smart and Sustainable Urban Development – Experiences from Kochi, India and Frankfurt, Germany with more than 26 CEPT university Masters students and Town planning officials participating in the same. The week
- Climate Smart Cities
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India is implementing a project named ‘Climate Smart Cities’ in Kochi city which is commissioned by Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, and Nuclear Safety (BMU). The project is implemented by GIZ. The project is aimed to develop climate-friendly solutions for urban infrastructure projects and area-based
- Capacity building program – Ecologistics
A two day capacity building workshop on sustainable urban freight management in Kochi in association with ICLEI South Asia and Kochi Metro Rail Limited, on 7th and 8th June 2019. The focus of the capacity-building workshop was to prioritize strategies that promote goods transportation with minimal impacts on air quality, noise, health and fatalities and
- Visit of official delegation from Vilnius , Lithuania as part of IUC programme
As part of the International Urban Cooperation Program funded by the European Union, a five member delegation from Vilnius, Lithuania led by the head of the urban development department, Mr. Mindaugas Pakalnis, visited Kochi to meet various stakeholders within Kochi Municipal Corporation, Kochi Smart City and other parastatal agencies involved in various urban development related activities in
- Subhash Park Tree Naming and Handbook Release
The Subhash Bose park which is maintained by the Center for Heritage, Environment and Development is rich in biodiversity. Under the interact bio project, jointly conducted by Kochi Municipal Corporation, c-hed and ICLEI, Mapping, Identification and Naming of trees in Subhash Bose Park were done. A total of 434 trees were identified which included 61
- Chullickal – Energy Survey
The Kochi Solar City Cell has launched an energy survey at Chullickal division of the Kochi Municipal Corporation. The survey kick started on 24/1/2019 with the support and help of 30 students from the Department of Commerce, Cochin College. The survey aims to identify the possibility of installing solar panels at residential buildings, finding the energy
- POSTER DESIGNING COMPETITION
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India had launched a scheme on “Development of Solar Cities”. Under this scheme Kochi was selected as one among the 60 cities to be supported for development as “Solar/ Green Cities”. The council of the Kochi Municipal Corporation had assigned the Centre for Heritage, Environment
- International Urban Cooperation Project
Funded by the European Union, the International Urban Cooperation (IUC) programme activities will support the achievement of bilateral policy objectives as well as major international agreements on urban development and climate change, such as the Urban Agenda, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Paris Agreement. The IUC programme will engage with major international financial institutions and
- URBAN PATHWAYS
URBAN PATHWAYS The Urban Pathways project helps delivering on the Paris Agreement and the NDCs in the context of the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. It has established a facility in close cooperation with other organisations and networks active in this area to support national and local governments to develop action plans
- One Planet City Challenge 2018-19
In cities, everything is closely connected. As cities and urban populations expand across the globe, the problems in cities also tend to multiply. Cities generate over 70% of global carbon dioxide emissions, while also providing a space for urgent (and tangible) climate action. The good news is that solutions can also multiply. And fortunately, solutions already exist today
- Fort Kochi Visioning Workshop
Fort Kochi is known as the cradle of Eurasian culture. It has a history of more than 500 years with an influence of both Indian and international cultures. Its vibrant history and culture makes it one of India’s major tourist hotspot. It has also been included under Kochi Smart City Project. WRI India in collaboration with Kochi Municipal Corporation ,Cochin Smart
- Kick-off workshop to road map for Zero Carbon Buildings for Kochi city
The Kochi Municipal Corporation (KMC) had, in its Annual Budget 2018-19, announced a rather innovative project “Zero Carbon Buildings” , which it intends to implement by associating with World Resources Institute India (WRI India) to develop a roadmap and action plan for all buildings to achieve zero carbon potential for Kochi city. Kochi is both a solar city and smart city and
- INTERACT Bio
INTRODUCTION: The project aims to strengthen the integration of biodiversity management at all levels of governance and facilitate cooperation between national and sub-national authorities for ecosystem management in urban regions. It is funded by Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety (BMUB) under their International Climate Initiative (IKI). The project is
- Maintenance and Management of Subash Chandra Bose Park
The Subhash Bose Park sandwiched between Park Avenue and the Ernakulam backwaters and facing the harbour is the most scenic and tranquil public space in the city. As the city chokes with ever-growing traffic and congested living conditions, this park has become the green lung and breathing space for the citizens of Kochi. It is
- National Workshop on ‘Guidelines for Biodiversity Conservation for Cities’
A national workshop was held as part of the activities under the INTERACT-Bio project (German-funded urban biodiversity project) that aims at supporting selected cities in India, Brazil and Tanzania to sustainably manage biodiversity and ecosystems, and support local governments. The national workshop on ‘Guidelines for Biodiversity Conservation for Cities’ was organised by the Kochi Municipal
- Dedicating Sculpture Ensemble to the City
The renovated sculptures in the Subash Chandra Bose Park, was dedicated to the city on 6th of February 2018 by Artist Namboodiri and literary critic Prof. M.K. Sanoo who were the Guest of Honors for the evening. The renovated work was unveiled in the presence of Hon’ble Mayor Smt. Soumini Jain, Kochi Municipal Corporation Chairpersons
- Sculpture Restoration Camp
The Subhash Bose Park lying on the banks of the Ernakulam backwaters and facing the harbour is the most scenic, tranquil and highly frequented public space in the city. As the city chokes with ever-growing traffic and congested living conditions, this park has become the green lung and breathing space for the citizens. The park
- Kick-Off Workshop on low-carbon urban energy, mobility and waste management solutions
The city of Kochi has been invited to be part of new initiative – the Urban Pathways project that aims at action delivering on the New Urban Agenda in the context of the Paris Agreement by the UN Habitat. This is in continuation with the SOLUTIONs project (Sharing Opportunities for Low carbon Urban TransportationS) in which Kochi
- c-hed signs MoU with CSL
As part of the maintenance and management plan of the Subhash Bose Park, c-hed had prepared a major restoration plan for the sculptures in the park. Though the proposal was submitted to three different organizations for the CSR fund support, it was the Cochin Shipyard ltd, who came forward to support the project. The Centre
- Interact BIO – Stakeholders Consultation
As part of the German funded INTERACT- Bio project a Stakeholder Workshop was organised with support of Kochi Municipal Corporation and Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development, and facilitated by ICLEI- South Asia. The project aims to mainstream and integrate biodiversity conservation and management into the planning process at the national, subnational and local level. Funded by
- Stakeholders Meeting on Action Plan for Solar City Project
Kochi city has been identified as a solar city by Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India and was assigned to prepare a solar city master plan for the city. Kochi Municipal Corporation (KMC) had engaged empanelled consultants of Ministry ofNew & Renewable Energy (MNRE) to prepare this master plan. The preparation
- SOLAR CITY CELL
Kochi was one of the 60 cities that were picked up for implementing the Solar city programme initiated by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, which “aimed at creating self-sustaining cities by leveraging the immense solar potential through renewable energy and several other energy efficiency projects. The programme also aims at “curbing conventional energy
- Asian Cities Climate Change Resilience Network (ACCCRN)
The Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development in association with the ICLEI Local Government for Sustainability, South Asia organized a one day Shared Learning Dialogue (SLD) workshop as a part of the Asian Cities Climate Change Resilience Network (ACCCRN), in Kochi on 17th June, 2016. ACCCRN is an initiative supported by the Rockefeller Foundation, to strengthen
- Water Policy for Kochi
The city of Kochi is facing unique water related problems like continued increase in population due to urbanization and industrialization which is causing severe decline in the quality and quantity of water. It is against this background that the budget of the Kochi Municipal Corporation for the year 2014-2015 decided to have a local water
- Principals from Cochin visit Sweden
As part of the ongoing Cochin-Kumla School Atlas Programme, the Principals of the selected schools Bhavan’s Girinagar and St. Teresa’s CGLPS School visited Kumla on August 24th, 2015. The programme initiated by the Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development and ICLD ( International Centre for Local Democracy) aimed at discussing ecological balance, environmental protection and socio-cultural exchange
- Steel cutting for RO-RO vessels
The ‘steel cutting’ for the two roll-on-roll-off vessels of the Kochi Municipal Corporation was held on August 1 at 11 a.m. at the Cochin Shipyard. The two vessels, which can carry passengers as well as cars and trucks, have been named as RY 96 and RY 97. Prof. K.V. Thomas, MP cut the steel for
- Workshop on Sustainable Transport Solutions for Cochin – March 25-27, 2015
Held during 25 to 27 March 2015, Kochi, India, the three day workshop on sustainable transport solutions workshop gathered various stakeholders regarding urban transport in the city and international expert organizations to discuss on possible solutions that can resolve the overwhelmed transport demand. Kochi has been selected as one of the take up city under
- 2nd Indo – German Water Partnership Summit, 2014
The 2nd Indo-German Water Partnership (GWP) Summit was organized by c-hed for Kochi Municipal Corporation in association with SCMS Group of Educational Institutions. The event was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala Shri. Oomen Chandy on 6th October 2014 at Cochin. The one-day conference involved panel discussions on industry-academia partnership on solving water
- AsianCitiesAdapt : Learning Exchange
Twenty cities from all around South Asia came together in Cochin on October 30th, 2013 to learn from each other on the issue of adaptation to climate change at the AsianCitiesAdapt: Learning Exchange, co-organized by Kochi Municipal Corporation and ICLEI South Asia. The workshop, that took place on 30th-31st October 2013, gathered an impressive line-up
- Visit of School Delegation from KUMLA as a part of School Atlas Program
As a part of the Municipal Partnership Program between the city of Cochin and city of Kumla (Sweden), a group of four member School Delegation from the Municipality of Kumla, Sweden visited the schools in the city. The Swedish delegation, consisting of teachers Lena Brostroem, Petra Eriksson, Joakim Gillman and Kumla City International Coordinator Ted
- MOBILITY GRID WORKSHOP – Joining the Dots….
The city of Cochin is witnessing the great shift towards a metro city with its infrastructure boom and transport projects. With the commencement of many major projects, the focus has shifted to providing seamless and sustainable accessibility and connectivity through integration of transport systems. The challenge lies in understanding the opportunities and constraints and visualizing the
- Visit of Official Delegation from the City of Kumla (Sweden) as part of the Municipal Partnership Programme
The city of Cochin and the city of Kumla(Sweden), has entered into a long-term self-sustaining relation through Municipal Partnership Program, as a result of the match making conference held in the city organized by ICLD, Swedish International Center for Local Democracy and Swedish Embassy. The city of Cochin had signed a memorandum of understanding with
- Broadway Urban Renewal, Ernakulam Market Urban Renewal and Renewal of Pond and Waterways to the Pond
One of the most important projects carried out by the c-hed is the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the above mentioned Broadway and Ernakulam Market Heritage Urban Renewal Project. The c-hed had been entrusted with the task of preparing the DPR of the above project by the Kochi Municipal Corporation. With the
- Master Plan preparation of Cochin City
Under the c-hed’s initiative a national workshop on formulation of vision document and strategic plan for Cochin City with a vision period of 20 years was organized in the year 2003. The recommendations of this seminar were the basis of the Vision Document prepared for Cochin City. On the basis of this vision document the
- JnNURM Projects
Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission – JnNURM A massive city-modernization scheme launched by the Govt. Of India under the Ministry of Urban development, JnNURM, aims to improve the quality of life and infrastructure in the cities. This mission hugely relates to the development of the cities, aiming at creating economically productive, efficient, equitable and
- Conservation and Development Plan – for the Heritage Zone of Fort Cochin and Mattanchery
This is one of the biggest heritage conservation projects conceived to protect the rich cultural and natural heritage of Fort Cochin and Mattanchery. The project was initiated by the c-hed and the UNESCO has given full support and assistance in the preparation of DPR for the above and the implementation of the same. The experts
- Cochin City Heritage Base Map
The city of Cochin, well known for its rich heritage and pluralistic culture, has been influenced by various cultures and nationalities, leaving their impressions in the fields of architecture, arts, crafts, cultural and heritage institutions. Tracking and documenting of heritage footprints of a city is an important task. Documentation and listing done in this regard is of great significance
- Management of Cultural Institutions
Cochin has a spectacular heritage of cultural expressions across many art forms and customs. The city has a secular, multicultural and diverse community. Amidst all major developments, the need for preserving, promoting and propagating the rich culture, tradition and heritage of the city is necessary. The role played by cultural institutions in this regard is
- Digitilization of Classrooms – Smart Class Room
We are living in an age of technology where technological advances are necessary for students, teachers and schools to compete with the developed countries. With an aim to reap the maximum benefits of modern technological advancements, the city administration decided to include the Project ” Smart Classroom” in its budget for the year 2012-2013. The c-hed had prepared
- Disposal of used Sanitary Napkins in schools
The proper and safe method of disposal of used sanitary napkins has been a major hurdle faced by city administrations the world over. Used sanitary feminine napkins are usually considered as residual waste, that is not compostable or recyclable and, therefore goes to dump-sites and landfills. It plays a major role in the clogging of
- Project for Evolving a System for Managing Plastic Waste in the City of Cochin
The popularity of plastic bags has led to a dramatic increase in the amount of bags found dumped in open grounds or water bodies. Apart from dumping, another method of disposal of plastics currently in vogue in the city is burning in open heaps which releases harmful dioxins into the atmosphere. The KochiMunicipal Corporation has
- Management of Libraries under the Kochi Municipal Corporation
The only true equalizers in the world are books; the only treasure-house open to all comers is a library; the only wealth which will not decay is knowledge; the only jewel which you carry beyond the grave is wisdom. – J.A. Langford Libraries are heaven for students, teachers and simply to all those who
- Climate Change
The climate is changing and the earth is warming up. Significant and lasting statistical change in distribution of weather patterns have been noticed and these changes in large are found to originate from human activities. Climate change has been recognized as a major concern for countries throughout the world, for both industrialized and developing. c-hed
- Integrated Conservation and Development of Ernakulam Heritage Zone – Central Area
This is one of the principal projects that the c-hed had undertaken to conserve and develop the Ernakulam Heritage Zone which is the heart of today’s City of Cochin. Most work places such as administrative and institutional centre and market places are located here. It is the central spine, identified as an area of intense
- Quality of Water and Ground Water Level
With a rise in population the demand for water is ever increasing. The ground water resources play an important role in meeting the drinking water purpose of a large populace. But these resources needs to be managed judiciously in order to ensure adequate supplies of dependable quantity, quality of ground water. Reduction in rainfall and
- Impact of Development on Backwaters
The costs of Kerala is bordered by 29 – backwaters running parallel to the shoreline. The water quality of these backwaters is deteriorating due to population explosion, rapid urbanization, industrialization, silting and agricultural activities. The city of Cochin has a good network of inland waterway system consisting of backwaters, canals and chain of lagoons. National
- Study on Soil Erosion and Deposition
A leading seaport since the 14th century, Cochin is the coastal city of Kerala with multi-cultural population. Being a dynamic coastal region, city’s coastal area is prone to erosion and deposition at different locations. Many studies indicate that a major stretch of Kerala’s coast line is eroding. The coastal areas of this city are experiencing
- Dutch-Cochin Project formulation
The commercial capital of Kerala and the cosmopolitan city of Kerala, Cochin is a mesmerizing blend of cultures. It has been the most sort after destination by sea-farmers and traders who later on settled on this enchanting land. Blessed with one of the finest natural harbors, the city of Cochin is rightly called ” The
- Built Heritage Conservation Projects
The city of Cochin revels in being a metropolitan where diverse cultures coexist without tampering the rich history of the city. Fort Cochin and Mattanchery are historic towns brimming with tales of myriad seafaring visitors from around the world who arrived here for trade and eventually settled down on these charming lands. It is home to many
- An Academic Session with students from Georgia University
The c-hed, an academic institution is into collaborations and exchange programmes with many notable national and international universities. The association with various universities and institutes across the world has led to collaborative research, academic support in terms of courses, seminars and developing academic programmes. Such partnerships has been facilitating the exchange of ideas and exposure to new experiences and
- Project on the “Impact of Plastic Debris on Marine and Human Health”
Plastic pollution in marine eco-system has been causing health hazards and economic loss. This non-biodegradable haphazard is one of the major threats to the very existence of mankind on this planet. The presence of plastic pollutants in the sea and backwaters of Cochin has been upsetting the marine eco-sytem and breeding grounds of a large
- Special Session towards Formation of Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA) for the City of Cochin
Though the rapid urbanization over the years has increased the number of roads, the unorganized parking, congested junctions are all causing havoc’s to the smooth flow of traffic within the city. Public transport systems have not been able to keep pace with the rapid increase in demand over the past few decades. Bus services in
- Road Conclave
The City of Cochin widely known as the commercial and economic capital of the state of Kerala, has been facing serious problems with regard to maintenance of its roads. The present road infrastructure hasn’t been able to meet the growing traffic demands and hence traffic congestion is becoming a major problem for the city. In