Govt’s 100-day plan boosts Vellayani bridge project

Times News NetworkThiruvananthapuram: A long-awaited bridge across Vellayani Lake near Kakkamoola has received a boost after being included in the state govt’s 100-day action plan, raising hopes that one of Thiruvananthapuram’s most anticipated infrastructure projects will soon open to traffic.The bridge, coming up in the Kovalam constituency, will improve connectivity between Kakkamoola, Venganoor, Poonkulam and nearby coastal areas, cutting travel time for thousands of residents. It is being implemented by the Kerala Road Fund Board with funding from KIIFB.The structure is 186.1 metres long and 14 metres wide, with a 7.5-metre carriageway and pedestrian footpaths of 1.5 to 3 metres. Construction is around 80% complete.

Pending approach road work and land acquisition have, however, delayed commissioning beyond the original deadline. Officials are working to resolve the remaining hurdles.Kovalam MLA M Vincent said inclusion in the 100-day action plan signals the govt’s intent to push the project to completion. “The bridge construction has reached an advanced stage, and we expect the remaining works, including the approach roads, to be completed within three months.

All departments concerned have been instructed to expedite pending works. Once completed, the bridge will provide major relief to local residents and significantly improve connectivity,” he said.The project has been in the works for several years, with residents and local bodies repeatedly flagging the need for a permanent crossing. At present, commuters between localities around Vellayani are forced onto longer routes, adding to travel time and congestion on adjoining roads.Beyond easing daily commutes, the bridge is expected to support tourism in the Vellayani-Kovalam region, which is known for its natural beauty and traditional agricultural landscape. Residents believe it will also improve access to schools and hospitals and stimulate economic activity in the fast-growing southern suburbs of the capital.