Confusion and delays continue to hinder progress on the long-stalled Outer Ring Road (ORR) project, as compensation to affected landowners is now unlikely to be disbursed by the previously promised deadline of 31 July. Public Works Department Minister P. A. Mohammad Riyas had earlier announced that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) would receive final approval from the Centre by the end of July, following discussions with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

Official sources confirmed that a team from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will visit the state next week. “The NHAI has sought revisions in the ORR alignment, particularly in sections passing through hilly terrain,” said a senior official.

However, several landowners have raised serious concerns. K. Raveendran Nair, one of the affected individuals, alleged that the DPR—required to initiate compensation disbursal—remains incomplete. He further claimed the state violated norms by acquiring land without proper approvals, stating, “For PPP projects, consent from at least 70 per cent of landowners is mandatory. That has not happened here. The 3A notification issued is illegal.”

Citing a Right to Information (RTI) document, Nair argued that the ORR project has seen no significant progress in two years, and the government lacks legal grounds to acquire land at this stage.

In December 2024, the Centre asked the state to revise the DPR to include SGST exemptions and amendments to mining regulations. The revised DPR, valued at Rs 147.67 billion, was submitted in January 2025. The ORR aims to ease urban congestion and enhance access to the Vizhinjam International Seaport.

Chandramohanan Nair, Chairman of the Outer Ring Road Vizhinjam-Navayikulam Janakeeya Samiti, said, “We’ve met all relevant authorities, who assured us compensation will begin next month. The PWD Secretary confirmed that final clearance would follow the NHAI inspection.”