Kochi | Former Kerala minister and Kerala Congress (Joseph) vice-chairman T U Kuruvila died at a private hospital here late Friday night, party sources said.

He was 89 and had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments for a long time.

Kuruvila served as Public Works Minister in the V S Achuthanandan-led government and represented the Kothamangalam Assembly constituency from 2006 to 2011.

A senior leader of Kerala Congress Joseph faction, he also served as a member of the Rubber Board and as chairman of the state Housing Board.

Chief Minister V D Satheesan condoled his demise, describing Kuruvila as a steadfast Kerala Congress leader who stood firmly with P J Joseph throughout his political career.

"He rose from the position of panchayat president to become a minister. His demise is an irreparable loss to Kerala's political sphere," the Chief Minister said, while expressing solidarity with the bereaved family and colleagues.

Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan also expressed condolences, saying Kuruvila had made notable contributions to public life as a minister and people's representative.

"He was a leader who remained close to the people through his political work and long years of public service, which made him a distinct personality," he said in his condolence message.