Kerala Government Greenlights Dredged Sand Usage for NH-66 Six-Laning Project
In a significant development for infrastructure development in Kerala, the state government has granted permission for the utilization of sand dredged from Muthalapozhi Harbour to be employed in the ambitious six-laning project of National Highway 66. This crucial decision specifically pertains to the stretch between Kazhakkootam and Kadampattukonam, which has been facing considerable delays.
Addressing Acute Construction Material Shortage
The fisheries and ports department issued an official government order on January 28, authorizing the supply of dredged sand from Muthalapozhi to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). This strategic move is expected to effectively alleviate the severe shortage of construction materials that has been hampering progress on one of the most vital highway segments in the state capital region of Thiruvananthapuram.
A senior NHAI official confirmed that this decision has successfully resolved the persistent soil shortage issue that was significantly slowing down the project's advancement. The contractor has been formally notified and will commence lifting the material shortly, the official stated, adding that this development should substantially help accelerate the completion timeline.
Project Timeline and Economic Considerations
While the official deadline for project completion remains December 2026, authorities now anticipate that major construction works could potentially be finished before the onset of the southwest monsoon in June. This accelerated timeline becomes feasible with the resolution of the material supply bottleneck.
The government's approval followed a formal request from RKCIPL, an NHAI subcontractor, seeking authorization to utilize dredged material specifically for embankment construction and related highway works. After thorough examination by the harbour engineering department, the chief engineer recommended approval, highlighting both economic and operational benefits.
The financial framework for this arrangement has been meticulously structured:
- The base value of sand has been established at Rs 1,389.83 per cubic metre
- This rate was determined after deducting conveyance charges from the public works department's prevailing local market rate
- When dredging operations utilize the Kerala Maritime Board's cutter suction dredger at Muthalapozhi, the effective recoverable rate payable to the government calculates to Rs 952.36 per cubic metre
- This adjusted rate incorporates dredging costs, while mining royalty and GST will be charged separately
Operational Requirements and Safeguards
NHAI will also be responsible for paying a monthly dredger rental fee of Rs 6 lakh, in addition to covering all associated maintenance expenses. Government officials emphasize that sourcing sand locally will dramatically reduce dependence on distant suppliers, thereby cutting transportation costs and minimizing logistical delays.
Stringent safeguards have been implemented to ensure proper utilization:
- The dredged material must be used exclusively for the NH-66 six-laning project
- Authorities must prevent any undue financial gain to contractors through this arrangement
- If NHAI fails to lift the sand according to schedule, the harbour engineering department retains the authority to auction the material after issuing proper public notice
Environmental and Navigational Protections
The government order places particular emphasis on navigational safety and environmental protection measures. It mandates time-bound dredging operations to maintain optimal harbour depth and ensure safe movement of fishing vessels. Special attention has been directed toward addressing ecological concerns associated with the dredging activities.
This comprehensive approach balances infrastructure development needs with environmental stewardship and operational efficiency, marking a significant step forward for Kerala's transportation network enhancement.
