From Barren to Blossom: Kattakkada's Remarkable Journey as Barren Lands Transform into Flower Farms Ahead of Onam

In a remarkable transformation, the once barren lands of Kattakkada in Kerala have bloomed into vibrant flower farms, just in time for the festive season of Onam. The project, aptly named "Our Onam Our Flowers," spearheaded by Kattakada MLA I B Satheesh, has successfully converted 60 acres of previously desolate land into flourishing marigold fields. The picturesque marigold farms, adorned with hues of orange and yellow, have become a visual spectacle in Kattakkada. This ambitious venture has eliminated the need for the capital district, Thiruvananthapuram, to rely on neighboring states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka for flower supplies during Onam. The success of this project is a result of collaborative efforts involving various stakeholders, including the local panchayat, the agriculture office, MGNREGA, and Kudumbashree. Women workers from Kudumbashree and MGNREGA played a pivotal role in cultivating the land, plowing, planting, and nurturing the marigold saplings. Pallichal Panchayat alone has transformed 26 acres of land into flourishing flower farms, while private individuals have also joined the initiative, cultivating flowers on their own lands. The involvement of the community and government support has been instrumental in achieving this feat. The flower farms have become a popular attraction, drawing visitors from all parts of Thiruvananthapuram who come to admire the breathtaking display. To make fresh flowers accessible to the public at affordable prices, the panchayat plans to organize flower markets within the city. Additionally, flowers are being supplied to vendors in local markets like Chala. MLA Satheesh expressed optimism that this initiative would enable the production of desired flowers within the region itself. As Onam approaches, the radiant blossoms of Kattakkada stand as a testament to the power of collective action and the transformative potential of innovative projects.