As dawn breaks, the Karamana-Aazhankal walkway in the city comes alive with a rare mix of calm and activity. Lush greenery flanks the path, the Karamana river hums softly alongside, and local residents stretch into yoga poses by the banks. It’s a lively pause – a blend of the city’s energy and natural peace.
Every morning, the walkway fills with people of all ages – some strolling leisurely, others striding or sprinting with purpose.
Among them is Vishnu Priya from Akshaya Nagar, who remembers a time when this now-bustling space was just a narrow bund road, barely wide enough for one person.
The transformation began with a 1.45-km walkway developed by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology & Environment (KSCSTE). The current, more ambitious project – managed by the Smart City since March 2024 – was designed by the State Irrigation department. Construction of a cafeteria, toilet complex, football turf and cricket pitches are currently under way.
Ms. Vishnu Priya is excited about the progress but hopes for more, including an open gym and a play area for children, all part of the proposed plan.
Yet, she’s concerned about the increasing litter. “Plastic bottles are strewn everywhere,” she laments, calling for more bins and regular clean-ups with help from the Haritha Karma Sena.
The walkway’s charm draws people from beyond the neighbourhood. Radhakrishnan travels from Edapazhanji just to enjoy a peaceful stroll. “It’s only my second visit but I already feel at home,” he says.
Murali, a regular walker, praises the tree cover. “This is the second walkway I’ve seen with such lush greenery. The other is in Mumbai,” he recalls.
Not everyone is upbeat though. Satheesh, a long-time walker from Pappanamcode, feels the upgrade caters more to younger visitors than people like him who have walked the old bund road for years.
He offers a few suggestions — clean toilets, a breastfeeding room, a first-aid station, a hanging bridge, and even cultural shows powered by modest electricity fee. He also recommends ensuring ambulance access for emergencies.
Other concerns remain. Stray dogs pose a significant threat, especially to women and children. N. Haridasan, secretary of the Karamana River Bund Protection & Walkers Association (KRBP&WA) flags the issue, urging immediate intervention.
When night falls, the mini ground near the walkway entrance is left in darkness.
Despite the challenges, the ₹16-crore project holds promise. Completion is expected within six to eight months. The project will accommodate parking for 80 cars and 150 two-wheelers. Proposals include a butterfly garden, zip line, cycling, urban forestry, fishing deck, and boating.
Evenings here are akin to stepping into a peaceful bubble. Karthika, a walker from Karamana, come here to unwind most days. “Whether it’s morning or evening, it’s the best place to relax,” says her friend Vaishnavi.
The walkway is more than a stretch of paved tiles — it is fast becoming the heart of a growing community.
Published – May 31, 2025 09:01 pm IST
