Valiyathura Pier In Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, To Be Redeveloped Into A Coastal Tourism Spot; Here’s What We Know

The Valiyathura Pier is a historic sea-bridge in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Now, the pier and its surrounding land are set to be developed and upgraded into a coastal tourism spot. Kerala Maritime Board (KMB) is drawing up a major plan to see this through. Here’s what we know so far.

Valiyathura Pier In Kerala Set For Major Development 

Located near Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and Vizhinjam Port, the Valiyathura area is seen as ideal for tourism and maritime recreation projects. As per a report by The New Indian Express, the Kerala Maritime Board (KMB) is seeking private participation for projects while retaining ownership of the land.

The proposal aims to repurpose and develop the unused port premises. The Valiyathura pier, which is over 60 years old, covers around 2.04 acres of land. This includes the 214-metre-long Valiyathura Pier with a 29-metre T-head. The site also has four warehouses, a two-storey port office building, and a three-storey residential quarters block. The plan is part of efforts to give new life to the site, which could become a major coastal tourism spot. The Valiyathura pier and surrounding area have remained unused since the old port department headquarters and adjoining buildings were damaged by Cyclone Ockhi.

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Plans To Boost Coastal Tourism

According to The New Indian Express, since the land falls under different Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ), all future developments must comply with CRZ norms and environmental clearances. For this, the board has invited ‘Expressions of Interest’ from private investors. Interested parties can submit proposals by November 10. They can propose projects either for individual buildings or for the entire area.

After the proposals are submitted, KMB will evaluate them and prepare a detailed plan before moving further. The land ownership will remain with the government, while private companies will be granted lease rights for up to 30 years. (Extendable with state approval.)

This is definitely a great decision. The Valiyathura Pier is known for its scenic ocean views and stunning sunsets. Once a prominent port, it is now popular as a spot where people come to photograph the ocean, watch the waves, or simply enjoy some peace.

Also Read: Kerala Tourism Aims To Attract More Tourists This Year; New Festivals, Events, Wellness Retreats & Activities Planned

If the redevelopment plan is successful, it could give a major tourism boost to the location. We just have to wait and see what kind of recreational activities the authorities have in mind. Have you ever visited the Valiyathura Pier in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala?

Cover Image Courtesy: Kerala Maritime Board/Website