In a significant development for Kerala's infrastructure, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to provide much-needed relief to the perennially congested Kochi-Alappuzha corridor. A key 5-kilometer segment of an ambitious elevated highway project is scheduled to open for traffic by March this year.
Final Push for India's Longest Single-Pillar Skyway
The segment between Aroor and Chandiroor is part of the larger 12.75-kilometer Aroor-Thuravoor stretch. Senior NHAI officials confirm that work on the six-lane elevated highway has entered its final phase. This skyway is poised to become India's longest single-pillar elevated corridor. With the state assembly elections approaching, both the state government and NHAI are pushing to make the entire stretch operational before voters head to the polls.
Construction progress is substantial. The physical infrastructure from Thuravoor to Aroor South is largely finished. Notably, only about 100 out of the total 2,565 massive girders remain to be launched. The corridor will be supported by 374 massive pillars. To ensure seamless local connectivity, three entry and exit ramps are being constructed at Aroor, Chandiroor, and Kuthiyathodu. A dedicated toll facility is also coming up near Moham Hospital in Eramalloor, specifically positioned to manage the elevated traffic flow.
Pioneering Feature: Kerala's First Dedicated Highway Cycle Track
In a landmark move for sustainable urban mobility in the state, this project integrates Kerala's first-ever dedicated highway cycle track. This pioneering feature runs below the main elevated deck along the entire 12.75-kilometer section. Built atop the 'utility corridor,' it offers a safe and dedicated space for cyclists, marking the first time NHAI has incorporated such cycling infrastructure into a major highway project in Kerala.
An official detailed the work, stating, "We've started laying the cycle track on both sides from the Thuravoor side using interlock tiles. The track, with a width varying from 1.25 meters to 2.5 meters, offers a safe passage." Additionally, a 2-meter-wide drainage-cum-footpath will be built on both sides next to the cycle track to ensure safe pedestrian movement.
Boosting Tourism and Future Demands
This initiative has already sparked enthusiasm among cycling advocates and tourism professionals. Many tourists visiting Kochi often cycle to Alappuzha to experience the scenic backwaters and local lifestyle. Bicycle enthusiasts like Rajesh P R, a tour guide, are now urging NHAI to extend the dedicated cycle track at least to Vytilla. Such an extension would cater to this tourist segment and significantly enhance their safety on the busy route.
The impending opening of the Aroor-Chandiroor segment represents a crucial step in decongesting a vital transport artery. Coupled with its innovative cycle track, the project sets a new benchmark for blending large-scale highway development with sustainable, multi-modal transport solutions in Kerala.
