Ernakulam hopes for the best

KOCHI: With three confirmed ministerial berths Ernakulam district awaits the implementation of major developments projects. In addition to Kerala Congress leader T M Jacob who has already assumed office, two more MLAs — K Babu and V K Ibrahim Kunju — will also take oath as ministers on Monday.  A host of new projects meant for the district needs immediate attention from the state government. "The first priority will be for implementing the Kochi Metro rail project. Smart City too needs mention. As a minister   I would focus on the overall development of all the people of the state, but pay special attention to Ernakulam," said Tripunithura MLA and minister-designate K Babu. He said there were many issues to be resolved. "We need to find solutions for traffic problems in Kochi city. Similarly efforts will be taken to solve the drinking water issues in West Kochi and surrounding areas," said Babu, a five-time MLA from Tripunithura who will don the role of a minister for the first time. Though his portfolio is yet to be decided, he's expected to get Excise.  Muslim League leader and Kalamassery MLA V K Ibrahim Kunju's berth in the Ministry was expected. A former Industries Minister, Ibrahim Kunju will get the Public Works Department portfolio. For a city  with many in roads in a dilapidated state, Ibrahim Kunju's berth in the Ministry would play an important role. Ibrahim Kunju's ministerial berth is a blessing mainly for the people of Fort Kochi and other neighbouring coastal regions. Earlier when he was representing Mattanchery constituency, he was instrumental in taking up the grass-roots level issues of the region.  “I am emotinally attached to Ernakulam district, naturally stress will be laid on major projects such as Metro Rail and Smart City. Since I am handling PWD, there is scope for doing more for Kochi,” said Ibrahim Kunju. Kerala Congress leader T M Jacob, who assumed office along with the Chief Minister, is another person who could support the implementation of various developmental projects in Ernakulam. Jacob, who is handling Food and Civil Supplies portfolio too will have a role to play in the overall development of the district.