The delay in completing the approach road for the Vettu Road flyover under the National Highway 66 expansion project is worsening traffic congestion in the northern parts of Thiruvananthapuram. Office commuters, schoolchildren, and public transport services are bearing the brunt, with residents fearing further disruption during the monsoon season.
Flyover Completion Delayed
The Vettu Road flyover is one of four flyovers being constructed as part of the 29.83-kilometer Kazhakkoottam-Kadampattukonam six-laning project. It was earlier expected to be opened for traffic this month. However, incomplete approach road works suggest that commuters may have to endure congestion for several more months.
Impact on Daily Commute
School vans leaving Pallipuram around 7 am reportedly take nearly an hour to reach Vettu Road during peak hours, highlighting the severity of bottlenecks on the stretch. Locals said prolonged traffic snarls have become part of daily life. Vignesh V, a Technopark employee who regularly uses the route, said worsening congestion has made commuting unpredictable. "I cannot afford to be late for work, but traffic on this stretch can worsen at any time. The congestion not only delays commuters but also creates anxiety due to uncertainty over travel time," he said. "Delays have become common and travelling through the stretch during peak hours is stressful," said Ajil K Dev, a student.
Effect on Businesses and Public Transport
The prolonged construction activity has also affected businesses in Kaniyapuram, where traders allege reduced customer footfall and severe dust pollution. Locals say congestion is impacting operations at the nearby Kerala State Road Transport Corporation depot as well.
Reasons for Delay
Officials attributed the delay partly to difficulties in sourcing suitable dry soil required for raising the approach road. However, some residents questioned the explanation, noting that work on the stretch has remained incomplete for months. With monsoon rains beginning in the state, commuters fear delays could continue, prolonging congestion along the road. National Highways Authority of India officials said work on the project is progressing at full pace but acknowledged that heavy rains could affect timelines.
