Kochi's new Corporation council will soon take office amid pressing city challenges. Former Mayor K. J. Sohan said Kochi lacks basic needs. Only 5% of the city has a sewage network. Drinking water is scarce despite Kochi being a 'city on water.' "80% of the city's groundwater remains contaminated," the Mayor stated. He also pointed out the failure of the Water Metro to serve common commuters and stressed the need for better public transport since Kochi has three national waterways. Aneesh Panthalani, State president of Progressive Techies, urged expanding Kochi's limits to include Thrikkakara, the IT hub, for integrated development. He called for widening roads and building an elevated highway from Infopark to Vyttila along the Water Metro route. The Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR) warned that Kochi lacks a clear vision. Founder D. Dhanuraj said Kochi should focus on port-based growth rather than jumping between projects. Manoj Panakkal of Kerala Merchants' Chamber said city services are slowed by incomplete automation. He called for better upkeep of markets and trade centers. Rangadasa Prabhu, representing city residents, asked for talks with the new leadership on priorities like transport, waste, roads, and mosquito control. The city awaits fresh leadership to turn their plans into action.