In Kochi, the much-hyped second phase development of the Marine Drive by the Greater Cochin Development Authority has hit an environmental road block. Since reclamation of the backwaters is not possible due to CRZ norms, the GCDA is now looking at constructing the road from Goshree Island Development Authority land near the High Court, to Varappuzha container road, on pillars erected in the backwaters, thus avoiding reclamation.
Two bridges also have to be constructed to connect the main island to Cheranalloor and Cheranalloor to Varapuzha. This 10.5 km stretch is the first phase of the proposed 65 km long ring road project earlier announced by the GCDA.
The ring road project, a major traffic flow corridor, will pass through the coastal areas linking major settlements, crossing NH 17, the new container road, the NH 47, Sea Port Airport Road and finally meeting the NH 47 at Kumbalam.
