The Excise department has identified 15 locations in Ernakulam district which could be converted into recreational spaces for the public as part of efforts to fight the growing influence of intoxicating substances in society.
The locations were identified as part of implementing the Statewide RELACZ (Rest & Entertainment in Leisure times At Comfort Zones) project, which is part of the State government’s 100-day action plan. One spot each, falling within government land, has been identified in all 15 Excise ranges in the district, according to sources with the department.
The plan is to set up facilities such as open gym, volleyball court, reading room, or hangouts at the locations in collaboration with the Local Self-Government department. The projects have to be funded through corporate social responsibility schemes or sponsorship, officials said.
Within Kochi city, the department has proposed to set up a facility at Marine Drive, while Aanapparambu in Eroor has been identified as a potential location within the Thripunithura range. Chellanam and Kuzhuppilly grama panchayats have been identified in Mattancherry and Njarackal ranges respectively, though no specific locations have been mentioned in the list prepared by the department.
The other locations identified are Chendamangalam-Paliyam (North Paravur range), Idampadam (Varapuzha), Aluva Manappuram (Aluva), Sehion Junction (Angamaly), Malayattoor Manappattuchira (Kalady), near Ayyappa Temple (Perumbavoor), Kadambrayar (Mamala), Manjalloor (Muvattupuzha), Ooramana (Piravom), Ward 3 of Nellikuzhi panchayat (Kothamangalam), and Aanakkayam and Mini Switzerland (Kuttampuzha).
“This is only a preliminary list, and the feasibility of setting up the facilities will be explored in consultation with the local bodies concerned. The interests and requirements of local bodies will be taken into consideration,” a senior Excise official said.
The official added that the department had been tasked with completing the procedures before October 10, the deadline for the 100-day action plan.
Published – September 04, 2026 08:55 pm IST
