Kochi: The Maradu municipality has presented its budget for the 2025-26 financial year, prioritizing waste management and job creation. Vice chairperson Rashmi Sanil presented the budget on Thursday, estimating a revenue of Rs 84.27 crore and an expenditure of Rs 82.37 crore.
A significant focus is on waste management, with Rs 5.11 crore allocated for sanitation projects. To boost employment, Rs 1.5 crore has been earmarked for the Maradu Innovation Hub, which will collaborate with companies to generate job opportunities.
The municipality has also proposed Sauraprabha, a solar energy initiative, allocating Rs 25 lakh to install solar panels in homes.
The budget includes plans to set up high-tech hot spots featuring snack bars, open gyms, Wi-Fi access, and seating areas. Additionally, Rs 1 crore has been set aside for the Food on Wheels project, which aims to provide safe and hygienic food through a mobile distribution system.
To improve accessibility to public services, the Hello Maradu initiative will introduce an online application system and upgrade front-office facilities. The municipality has also prioritized sports infrastructure, allocating Rs 1 crore to develop playgrounds in each ward.
Other key allocations include Rs 2.5 crore for drinking water projects, Rs 85 lakh for employment guarantee schemes, Rs 50 lakh for Kudumbashree initiatives, Rs 71 lakh for healthcare, and Rs 30 lakh for sanitation facilities.
The budget will be discussed further in the municipal council meeting on Friday.
