Mettukada Railway Bridge Construction Stalled for 18 Months in Thiruvananthapuram
The construction of a crucial railway bridge at Mettukada, designed to link Valiyasala and Thycaud in Thiruvananthapuram, has remained stalled for nearly 18 months, causing severe inconvenience to residents and commuters along this busy stretch. The project, initiated about a year and a half ago to improve connectivity between Valiyasala, Thycaud, and Pappanamcode, began with initial progress but has since slowed significantly, leaving the area in a state of disarray and raising widespread concerns among the local community.
Dust Pollution and Health Hazards Plague Residents
Residents living near the construction site report that the area is constantly blanketed with red dust from the inactive work zone. Houses, trees, and plants in the neighbourhood are coated with this dust, with visible clouds persisting throughout the day and night. This dust pollution has triggered respiratory problems and other health issues, forcing some families to temporarily relocate from their homes to avoid the adverse effects. Ward councillor G Venugopal has highlighted that the lack of proper planning from the outset has exacerbated these environmental and health risks, leaving the community vulnerable.
Safety Risks and Traffic Disruptions Escalate
Safety concerns at the site have reached a critical point. A deep pit dug near the old bridge for pillar construction remains open and partially filled with concrete and steel reinforcements, posing a significant hazard. With no proper diversion in place, commuters travelling between Valiyasala and nearby areas are forced to navigate through the construction zone, leading to increased traffic congestion. Recently, a motorcyclist sustained grievous injuries after falling into one of these pits, yet vehicles continue to pass through due to the absence of safety barriers or warning signs, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
Project Delays and Structural Issues
Adding to the woes, 36 concrete pillars constructed during the initial phase were later demolished after changes were made to the bridge alignment, with the debris still piled up at the site, further endangering residents and commuters. A senior Southern Railway official explained that the bridge design has not received final technical approval, as engineers discovered loose soil conditions at the site, necessitating revisions to the foundation and structural design. This delay has left the project in limbo, with no clear timeline for resumption.
Community Frustration and Potential Protests
Ward councillor G Venugopal has warned that if the project continues to remain stalled, residents are prepared to launch protests to demand action. The prolonged inactivity has not only disrupted daily life but also raised questions about the efficiency and planning of infrastructure projects in the region. As dust pollution, safety hazards, and traffic issues persist, the community calls for immediate measures to address these challenges and revive the construction efforts to restore normalcy and improve connectivity.
