After finding the project cost escalating from Rs 50.71 crore to Rs 126 crore, more than doubling the initial estimate for the construction of an IAS residential complex at Akkulam, the Kerala govt has granted revised sanction for it. The revised amount includes GST, percentage charges, and related components.
The revised sanction was granted through an order passed on March 12. It follows a detailed project report submitted by the public works department (PWD), based on estimates prepared by ULCCS, the agency entrusted with executing the project.
Due to the steep rise in cost, the state govt has opted for a phased execution strategy. As per the order, construction will initially be limited to the extent of the present administrative sanction as Phase I, with the remaining portion to be taken up as Phase II, subject to availability of funds and fresh approvals.
The project, located in Cheruvakkal village near Akkulam, was first sanctioned in 2021, following which a managing committee was formed and a special officer appointed to oversee the development of the complex.
The revised estimate of Rs 126 crore was submitted by the chief engineer (buildings), PWD, along with the detailed project report. While the govt has granted its approval, the order does not specify factors that led to such a steep escalation.
The IAS quarters project traces back to 2021—a period when the govt. simultaneously cleared a set of housing initiatives under the LIFE Mission.
The IAS residential complex will continue to be executed by ULCCS under the supervision of the PWD, in accordance with the PWD Manual and prevailing govt norms. The chief engineer (buildings) has been directed to take further necessary steps.
With Phase I now cleared under the revised sanction, the project is set to move forward.
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