Bridge to Azhikode yet to take off

Three years after its announcement, the project to construct a bridge connecting Munambam to Azhikode is yet to take off.

Once completed, the bridge will connect Ernakulam and Thrissur districts.

The bridge will provide an easy access to the International Container Transshipment Terminal at Vallarpadam and also reduces traffic congestion on the NH-17.

“A bridge connecting Munambam to Azhikode is a long- pending demand of the people of Vypeen island.

 The proposals for the bridge began to come up in the early 90s itself,” said S Sarma MLA.

 “The project was mooted and announced by the LDF Government in February 2010 and administrative sanction was also granted.

 However, the LDF Government could not realise the project as they lost power in the last election,” he said.

 Though the estimated cost of the 1,150 metres-long bridge was Rs 92 crore then, it has now escalated to  Rs 150 crore.

 Agencies such the Department of Inland Navigation and Port and Inland Waterway Authority have issued clearance for the project.

 “But a fresh administrative sanction and technical sanction as per the revised rate are essential for the project as the cost of the project has escalated to Rs 150 crore.

 The Design Research Investigation and Quality Control Corporation under the Public Works Department should be asked to finish the design of the bridge,” Sarma said.

 He also urged the government to conduct an environment study which is essential for issuing technical sanction.

 The PWD denied te allegation that the design for the bridge has not been prepared.

 “We have accepted the draft design prepared by the DRIQ and awaiting the final design,” said a PWD official associated with the project.

* The bridge will connect Ernakulam and Thrissur districts

* It will provide an easy access to the International Container Transshipment Terminal at Vallarpadam

* It will ease traffic congestion on the NH-17 *The proposals for the bridge began to come up in the early 90s

*The project mooted by LDF Government in February 2010

*Earlier the estimated cost of the 1,150 metres-long bridge was Rs 92 crore. It has now escalated to r Rs 150 crore