Thiruvananthapuram: The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Sunday released its manifesto for the upcoming Thiruvananthapuram Corporation election, announcing a wide range of development promises, including preparing the city to serve as one of the venues for the 2036 Olympics.
Although the host city for the 2036 Games has not yet been decided, reports indicate that Ahmedabad is bidding to host the global sporting event. Releasing the manifesto, BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar unveiled the document in the presence of NDA leaders and workers. The manifesto was formally handed over to Vijayan, an autorickshaw driver in the city.
According to the document, the NDA aims to elevate Thiruvananthapuram into one of India’s top three cities by 2030. It also promises to request the central government to designate the state capital as a venue for the 2036 Olympics, asserting that the Games will be held in India.
A key assurance in the manifesto is that, if the NDA comes to power in the Corporation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will announce a comprehensive development roadmap for the city within 45 days. The alliance also pledges to transform civic administration by ensuring that all services are delivered transparently through online platforms and Common Service Centres at residents’ doorsteps.
The NDA promises 100 per cent coverage of all eligible beneficiaries under Central Government welfare schemes, stating that delivery mechanisms will remain tamper-free. Digital and AI-based systems will be introduced to create a fully transparent, corruption-free administration. An annual progress report and a yearly ‘Budget Report Card’ outlining income, expenditure, and project implementation will also be published.
Housing for all homeless residents within five years is another major commitment, to be implemented with Central assistance. To address recurring flooding, the NDA proposes adopting a Surat-model drainage system. Waste management will follow the Indore model to ensure timely and scientific disposal, while centrally monitored street lighting will help maintain uninterrupted illumination.
The manifesto outlines plans to boost pilgrimage tourism centred around the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Attukal Temple, Beemapally Mosque, and Vettucaud Church. The street dog menace will be addressed through dedicated shelters and improved veterinary care.
The alliance also promises the rejuvenation of key water bodies — including the Karamana and Killi rivers, Amayizhanjan Canal, and Parvathi Puthenaar — following the model of the Ganga rejuvenation mission. Projects to tackle coastal erosion and strengthen port infrastructure will be pursued with Central Government support.
Every ward will have a 24×7 family health centre with a duty doctor, and the Jan Aushadhi pharmacy network will be expanded to ensure affordable medicines. Repairs of dilapidated houses will begin within 15 days of assuming power. Major upgrades to the city’s road, rail, and air connectivity are promised, along with efforts to realise the Metro project through Central backing. The NDA also plans to revitalise the city’s nightlife through coordinated efforts involving street vendors, industries, and local communities.
The manifesto further assures that the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, councillors, and officials will conduct regular ward visits to address public grievances directly.
Following the release, Chandrasekhar criticised the CPI(M), which has governed the Corporation for 45 years, alleging that it failed to introduce development initiatives. He said that if the BJP comes to power, a detailed development roadmap would be presented within 45 days.
“A developed Thiruvananthapuram and a corruption-free administration are what the BJP promises,” he said, adding that local self-government institutions are responsible for addressing everyday issues faced by citizens. He noted that residents had given the CPI(M) nine chances to govern, but alleged those opportunities were used for “corruption and plunder instead of development.”
With PTI inputs