The long-awaited Thiruvallam service bridge on the NH-66 bypass is swiftly taking shape, with project officials now setting their sights on opening the vital structure to the public by April 2026. This new bridge, running parallel to the existing one, is a key initiative to boost safety and alleviate severe traffic congestion on this notorious stretch of highway.
Construction Milestones and Accelerated Timeline
Significant progress has been made on the ground, with major structural work reportedly crossing the halfway point. Contractors and engineers have successfully completed the construction of all pillars and pier caps. The focus has now shifted to casting girders and placing them atop the supports, a critical step towards finishing the main span of the bridge.
The structure will be 360 meters long and 12 meters wide. Sources close to the project indicate that, barring any unexpected delays, the entire superstructure could be assembled ahead of the projected schedule. This would pave the way for final roadwork and finishing touches, keeping the April 2026 target firmly in sight.
Addressing Safety and Heritage Concerns
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which is overseeing the project, expressed optimism about the current pace. An NHAI official stated, "We are pushing hard to ensure all major elements of the bridge, including the girder casting and deck work, are completed in the current phase."
The new service bridge has been a persistent demand from locals and daily commuters. The old Thiruvallam bridge has been the site of numerous accidents and chronic traffic jams. Earlier police records cited in reports highlighted that over 100 accidents occurred on the old bridge in a three-year span, often due to unsafe crossing and traffic violations near the temple and toll junctions.
The project did face a temporary hurdle earlier this year when the archaeology department raised concerns about the bridge's proximity to the heritage Parasurama temple. This led to construction pauses for alignment clarifications and ensuring cultural preservation norms were met. These issues were subsequently resolved without major redesigns, allowing work to resume.
Expected Impact on Traffic and Pedestrian Safety
Once operational, the service bridge is designed to transform local traffic flow. It will provide dedicated access for vehicles traveling from Ambalathara toward Thiruvallam and Pachalloor. By diverting this local traffic away from the main NH-66 bypass, it is expected to significantly improve overall traffic movement and reduce snarls.
In a major boost for non-motorists, the bridge will also feature footpaths on both sides, greatly enhancing pedestrian safety in the area. This addition addresses a critical need for safer passage for people on foot.
The rapid progress on the Thiruvallam service bridge brings hope to thousands of daily commuters for a safer, smoother journey by April 2026, marking a significant infrastructure upgrade for the region.
