Dear friends,
Fort Cochin is a small town which relates the tale of many an eventful
episode of History, and is home to several historic monuments. It’s here
that the Cochin backwaters meet the sea. And the Chinese nets which dot
this stretch for the first time. These nets bear eloquent testimony to a rich
cultural pastwhich this part of the land boasts of. Also, Fort Cochin
constitutes the 1st Division of Cochin Corporation.
Fort Cochin is a place of great historicity. It’s the enthusiasm and care
shown by the residents to preserve these monuments here that are
instrumental in luring a large number of tourists to Fort Cochin every year.
Most often, the charm and grandeur of the spectacles here reach well
above the expectation of the tourists dropping in here. Also, this area
houses the greatest number of schools in Cochin, some of which are
century – old.
Though this locale is well-known all over the world in many respects, Fort
Cochin is yet to find its due recognition. And hence the relevance of Fort
Cochin Residents’ Welfare Association which was formed with a view to
retain the traditional glory of the locale. The Association, which was
formed in 2000, has been able to initiate cleanliness drive, tourist boat
service for transportation, beach development, aid for school children, free
medical camps meant for the needy, awareness against drugs etc,.
Thanks to the efforts of the Association, several such vital issues were
brought to the notice of the authorities and people’s representatives and
solutions were evolved.
And now, the Association intends to set in motion yet another project – to
bring out a book on the great tradition and uniqueness of Fort Cochin for
the benefit of the tourists visiting here. I would like to express my gratitude
to all the individuals, institutions and organizations who extended a helping
hand to us in this unique endeavour.
We are also grateful to V.K. Ibrahim Kunju, MLA and Division Councillor C.
G. Rameshan who have been instrumental in helping the Association
devise and visualize may an imaginative programme.
Regards
Charles Antony,
President
