Kochi corporation is lagging behind in implementing projects under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).

According to official data, the centre alloted Rs 509.22 crore under six components of the JNNURM for the city. Of this, the civic body utilised only 35 per cent.

In order to upgrade water supply system in Kochi, the centre alloted Rs 201.17 crore. The Kochi Corporation authorities plan to complete the construction of the Maradu Water Treatment Plant project initiated under the water supply scheme by December 2013.

The civic body is awaiting approval of the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) for cutting the NH for laying the pipes. The 90 per cent work related to the plant has been completed and the plant may be commissioned by December 2013, if sanction is received from the NHAI, sources from the civic body said.

So far, 55 per cent of the centre’s share allotted for the project has been utilised by the corporation. The project also saw a cost escalation of Rs 48.83 crore as tender excess, owing to the delay.

If the civic body fails to complete the work of the first phase within the deadline, the state government will have to bear the remaining cost for the completion of the projects. The second phase of JNNURM is all set to be launched next year.