Kozhikode MP criticises delay in DPR for road widening

M.K. Raghavan, Congress MP, has criticised the delay by the National Highways Division of the Public Works department (PWD) in preparing a detailed project report (DPR) for the proposed widening of the Malaparamba-Vellimadukunnu stretch as a four-lane road.

Mr. Raghavan alleged on Sunday (October 5) that even after the Centre issued clear instructions for the purpose, the NH division was delaying the process. He claimed that the Centre had allocated ₹75 crore for the development of the 3-km stretch between Malaparamba and Vellimadukunnu, which is under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). On August 22 this year, the regional officer of the NHAI had directed the chief engineer, NH division, PWD, to submit a DPR in seven days. It was also promised that the funds would be released from the annual plan based on the DPR. Mr. Raghavan alleged that the NH division was creating hurdles by delaying the DPR. This could lead to the lapsing of the funds, he said, adding that the development of the Malaparamba-Vellimadukunnu stretch was essential for clearing the traffic bottlenecks in Kozhikode city.