Road Over Bridge projects fast-tracked in Kollam, Alappuzha, and Kottayam

Major infrastructure improvements are underway in the Mavelikara Lok Sabha constituency as multiple Road Over Bridge (ROB) projects move through various stages of development to eliminate chronic traffic congestion at railway level crossings. “These initiatives, spanning the districts of Kollam, Alappuzha, and Kottayam, are designed to provide a permanent solution to transportation hurdles that have long plagued the region’s commuters and local businesses,” said MP Kodikunnil Suresh.

The proposed Road Over Bridge (ROB) project at the Avaneeswaram level crossing in Kollam district was approved during the 2020–21 period. The General Manager’s in-principle approval has been received to provide 100% railway funding for this project. With KRDCL (Kerala Rail Development Corporation Limited) appointed as the executing agency, the process for obtaining government-level GAD (General Arrangement Drawing) approval is currently underway.

The project for the construction of an ROB at the Mynagappally level crossing in Kollam district was approved in 2016–17, and following the GAD approval in July 2022, the land acquisition process is currently progressing. “Once the project is completed, traffic congestion in the Kayamkulam–Kollam railway section will be significantly reduced,” said Mr. Suresh.

In Alappuzha district, the construction of the Thrippakudam railway overbridge has already commenced. “Regarding the proposed ROB project at the Mavelikara Kallumala level crossing, construction works are progressing through the RBDCK (Roads and Bridges Development Corporation of Kerala), following the completion of land acquisition procedures. Additionally, approval has been granted for ROB projects at Nalukodi and Vadakkekara in Kottayam district,” he added.

The ROB projects in Thakazhi (Alappuzha district) and Changanassery (Kottayam district) received approval during the 2023–24 financial year. In-principle approval has been granted for 100% railway funding for both locations, and the procedures for execution through KRDCL are progressing. The construction work for these projects can commence once the GAD (General Arrangement Drawing) approval is secured.