Milind Soman to Lead Inaugural Run on Kerala's New Hill Highway in Idukki
Actor, model, and renowned endurance runner Milind Soman is set to spearhead a significant 20-kilometer run this Sunday along the freshly completed hill highway in Idukki district, Kerala. This high-profile event is organized on the scenic Elappara-Kanchiyar stretch and serves as a celebratory inauguration for the ambitious hill highway project, which has been implemented with crucial support from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB).
Details of the Hill Highway and Run Route
The expansive hill highway spans an impressive 1,332 kilometers, traversing 13 districts across the state of Kerala, enhancing connectivity in the high ranges. In Idukki, the featured stretch for the run covers 20 kilometers from Kuttikkanam to Chappath, offering participants breathtaking views. The construction of this segment began during the tenure of the previous LDF government and reached completion by the end of January this year.
Event Logistics and Participation
Registered participants have been instructed to assemble at 5:30 AM at the Marian College Ground in Kuttikkanam. Prior to the flag-off at 7:00 AM, runners will be provided with hydration kits and commemorative T-shirts. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, women bikers, roller skaters, and cyclists will accompany the runners along the picturesque Kuttikkanam–Chappath route. Following the run, Milind Soman will travel in an open jeep to Kattappana, engaging with the public along the journey.
Official Inauguration Ceremony
The official inauguration ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Kattappana Mini Stadium after the run. The Kuttikkanam–Chappath–Kattappana stretch, which is part of the renovated Peermade–Devikulam hill highway, will be formally inaugurated by PWD and Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas. Finance Minister K N Balagopal will grace the event as the chief guest, while Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine will preside over the proceedings.
Strategic Importance of the Hill Highway
This newly inaugurated hill highway is strategically designed to link major tourist corridors across Kerala, including:
- Vagamon–Thekkady
- Vagamon–Anchuruli
- Vagamon–Idukki
- Vagamon–Munnar
By enhancing connectivity in these high-range areas, the project aims to boost tourism and facilitate smoother transportation, marking a significant milestone in Kerala's infrastructure development.
