The Kerala state budget has once again failed to earmark funds for the long-pending development of the Vazhimukku-Kaliyikkavila stretch, casting uncertainty over one of the most crucial road projects in Thiruvananthapuram district's southern fringe.
Second Phase of Major Road Project Stalled
The proposed widening of the corridor forms the second phase of the Karamana-Kaliyikkavila road development project. This initiative is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Thiruvananthapuram city and the southern border regions, including Neyyattinkara and Parassala. Despite repeated assurances from the government, commuters continue to navigate the narrow, congested stretch that witnesses heavy traffic daily. The corridor also serves as an important link to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border and carries substantial passenger and commercial traffic.
Omission Despite Recent Promises
The omission comes despite recent assurances by Neyyattinkara MLA N. Sakthan that the government would accord priority to the development of the Vazhimukku-Kaliyikkavila stretch. However, no fresh allocation or announcement related to the project figured in the budget, leaving residents and motorists disappointed. When contacted, Sakthan was unavailable for comment.
Previous Sanction and Current Status
Earlier, the government had accorded in-principle administrative sanction of Rs 200 crore through the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) in 2023 for the development of the Vazhimukku-Kaliyikkavila stretch, including land acquisition. While preliminary surveys and planning exercises have been initiated, the project has made little visible progress on the ground.
Local Criticism and Calls for Action
Criticising the continuing delay, S. K. Jayakumar, president of the Karamana-Kaliyikkavila Road Action Council, said the government had repeatedly raised hopes among the public without translating announcements into action. “Residents of Neyyattinkara and Parassala have been waiting for years for this road. Every budget raises expectations, but once again there is no concrete allocation. The project is vital for the southern region’s development, and the government should immediately begin the remaining land acquisition and construction procedures instead of making repeated promises,” he said.
Ongoing Bottleneck for Commuters
The Karamana-Kaliyikkavila road project has been implemented in phases over the past several years, with completed stretches easing traffic movement in some areas. However, the lack of progress on the Vazhimukku-Kaliyikkavila section continues to remain a major bottleneck, affecting thousands of daily commuters.
