The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) has proposed a management plan to stop untreated sewage from flowing into four canals in Kerala, including the Edappally and Thevara-Perandoor canals in Ernakulam. This plan is part of the final draft report submitted to the Kerala State Pollution Control Board and presented before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) Southern Bench. The NGT had taken suo motu action over the sewage pollution in these waterbodies. Besides Ernakulam canals, the study also covered Patolithot and Valiyat canals in Kollam. NEERI's report calls for a step-by-step reduction in sewage and solid waste discharge into these canals. It focuses on improving water quality and protecting the canals from further damage. The plan also includes urban growth integration with the canal system for sustainable development and fencing along both canal banks. To reduce sewage risks, the report says, "The existing sewer system facilities must be improved to reduce the risk of sewage discharge into the canals." It emphasizes the need for a complete sewerage network plan to capture and treat all sewage before it reaches the canals. The study warns that "Encroachment on canal banks narrows the canal, intensifies water pollution and causes the breakdown of the whole ecosystem of the surrounding areas." Regular monitoring of canal shorelines is necessary. Garbage disposal into canals harms water life and lowers dissolved oxygen levels. NEERI stressed, "Such waste disposal into canals and the drain discharges should be restricted. This waste must be scientifically treated and disposed of in a municipal landfill." Overall, the plan aims to stop pollution, restore healthy water ecosystems, and support cleaner, greener surroundings along Kerala’s canals.