NHAI is poised to make a decision on constructing an elevated highway along the 17-km Edappally-Aroor NH 66 bypass shortly after the Lok Sabha election results. Despite the finalization of the detailed project report (DPR) being in its concluding phase, tenders and bidding await the DPR’s completion. The proposed six-lane elevated highway aims to alleviate congestion in the heavily built-up corridor of Kerala.
The DPR, being prepared by the same firm handling the Aroor-Thuravur stretch project, has progressed over 20%, with efforts to wrap up by 2025’s end, ahead of schedule. Originally slated for a 2026 opening, the elevated corridor’s completion is anticipated to exacerbate congestion until the Edappally-Muthakunnam NH 66 stretch’s six-laning finishes by late 2025.
To ease Edappally Junction congestion, plans include constructing dual six-lane underpasses alongside the elevated highway. Minimal land acquisition is envisaged, particularly at Vyttila and Kundannur, utilizing the National Highways Act for swifter proceedings.
Once piling commences, completion of the elevated highway is estimated within 30 to 36 months, necessitating vehicle diversions via service roads.