Kerala Chief Minister to Officially Open Second Phase of Vazhayila-Nedumangad Road Expansion
In a significant development for Thiruvananthapuram's infrastructure, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is scheduled to inaugurate the much-anticipated second phase of the four-lane expansion of the Vazhayila–Nedumangad Road on February 22. This key suburban arterial link, confirmed by civic sources, is poised to transform connectivity and alleviate traffic congestion along one of the region's busiest corridors.
Project Details and Contractor Selection
The upgraded stretch from Karakulam to Valicode has been executed by the Kerala Road Fund Board (KRFB), the implementing agency for this crucial project. Initially, a Tamil Nadu-based firm was awarded the contract for phase II, but the agreement was cancelled after the contractor failed to submit the required bank guarantee within the stipulated timeframe. This prompted KRFB to scrap the original agreement and issue a fresh e-tender.
Following a competitive bidding process, the tender was awarded to Aboobacker from Kasaragod, who stepped in after the previous contractor's failure to meet contractual requirements. A senior KRFB official stated that preparations are now fully in place for the formal inauguration, with nearly 95% of land acquisition for this phase already completed and compensation duly disbursed to affected landowners.
Enhanced Infrastructure and Connectivity Benefits
The Vazhayila–Nedumangad four-lane project aims to convert the existing narrow two-lane road into a 21-meter-wide thoroughfare, featuring a central median and pedestrian pathways on both sides. This upgrade is expected to significantly reduce travel time and improve safety for commuters along the 12-kilometer stretch, which connects the city's eastern suburbs to Nedumangad.
Meanwhile, work on the first phase from Vazhayila to Karakulam, which includes the construction of the Karakulam flyover, continues to progress steadily. Sources indicate that the first layer of tarring is currently underway, with full completion of this section now anticipated by April.
Broader Regional Impact
Once fully completed, the expanded corridor is projected to offer smoother connectivity not only within the capital's peripheral regions but also facilitate easier access to interior towns such as Palode, Madathara, and Vithura. Additionally, it will enhance access to destinations in Tamil Nadu, including Tenkasi and Courtallam, thereby boosting regional integration and economic activity.
This infrastructure enhancement underscores the state government's commitment to improving road networks and addressing urban mobility challenges, with the inauguration marking a pivotal step towards a more efficient and safer transportation system in the area.
