The Kerala state government has accorded fresh administrative sanction for the long-delayed construction of the Vallakadavu bridge in Thiruvananthapuram, approving a substantial outlay of Rs 59.20 crore. This significant development was confirmed through an official order issued by the Public Works Department (PWD), marking a crucial step forward for the infrastructure project that has been in the pipeline for years.
Project Timeline and Financial Approvals
With the financial nod now secured, authorities have indicated that the tender for the bridge's construction is expected to be floated in February, setting the stage for physical work to commence in March of this year. The revised sanction was granted following a comprehensive reassessment of the project estimate, which now includes an 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) component.
A Long Administrative History
The Vallakadavu bridge project boasts a lengthy and complex administrative history. Initial approval of Rs 5 crore was granted as far back as July 2009. This was followed by a revised sanction of Rs 39.80 crore in May 2023 and a further enhancement to Rs 55.50 crore in March 2025. However, after incorporating updated schedule of rates and tax components, the total project cost escalated to Rs 59.20 crore, prompting the need for this latest administrative approval.
The revised administrative sanction was issued subject to compliance with conditions laid down in earlier government orders, which must be met before technical sanction is granted. The proposal for this revised approval was submitted by the Chief Engineer of the PWD bridges wing in October 2025, citing the necessity to regularise the increased estimate.
Bridge Specifications and Local Impact
The bridge, which spans the Parvathy Puthanar canal in the Vallakadavu-Valiyathura area, has been a persistent demand of local residents and commuters. For over a decade, they have sought a permanent replacement for the aging structure. The original bridge, built more than 130 years ago, was declared unsafe and subsequently closed in 2022. This forced the PWD to construct a temporary facility to maintain essential traffic flow in the interim period.
Financial Allocation and Land Acquisition
Officials have explained that a significant portion of the approved Rs 59.20 crore will be allocated to cover both land acquisition compensation and actual construction costs. PWD sources have indicated that the tender process will begin within a month, following necessary internal clearances and final notifications. Earlier projections had estimated that construction could begin by mid-2025, but procedural complexities have pushed these timelines back.
Community Response and Future Benefits
Raagam Rahim, a social worker who has actively campaigned for the implementation of this project, welcomed the government's approval. He emphasised that this bridge would significantly enhance regional development and connectivity. Once completed, the new 500-meter bridge will dramatically improve connectivity between Thiruvananthapuram city, the coastal belt, and the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.
This infrastructure enhancement is expected to substantially improve traffic flow and reduce travel time for thousands of daily commuters, providing a much-needed boost to local transportation networks and economic activity in the region.
