The completion of the Kochi-Munnar NH-85 upgrade is set to enhance connectivity and boost tourism in the region. As part of the project, 45 culverts along the corridor have been reconstructed at a cost of Rs 500 billion. Additionally, plans are underway for a four-lane Greenfield National Highway spanning 151 km along the Kochi-Munnar-Theni corridor, further improving travel infrastructure. 

Meanwhile, the long-delayed culvert construction near Statue Junction on NH-85 is nearing completion. The project, which began over three years ago, had caused frequent traffic congestion at the entrance to the Tripunithura Mini Bypass Junction, triggering protests from commuters. The issue stemmed from a pothole that gradually expanded into a large crater due to the erosion of an old canal built 60 years ago for Cochin Refinery. The weakened ground led to road collapses and multiple accidents, particularly involving two-wheelers. 

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) resumed work on the 21-meter-long culvert nearly ten months ago, dividing it into three phases of seven meters each. With construction now in its final stages, the completion of the project is expected to ease traffic flow and improve road safety along the crucial NH-85 corridor. 

(newindianexpress)