Govt to conduct feasibility study of undersea tunnel construction

Experts want government officials to take the initiative to sanction a Rs five crore grant for a technical feasibility study of undersea tunnel construction as part of the state's coastal highway project.

If the project is funded by the government, reputable institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology, which has a separate wing for ocean engineering, can conduct the feasibility study, according to Jose Paul, former acting chairman of Mumbai's Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT).

Between Fort Kochi and Vypeen, the water edge is about 450 m wide. By car, it takes about 45 minutes to get to Fort Kochi. If the tunnel becomes a reality, it could be reduced to less than 20 minutes. It will also provide much-needed fast transportation for people travelling from the state's northern districts to the south.

According to conversations with tunnel construction experts, the total cost could be around Rs 1,500 crore. Only after the feasibility study has been completed can the actual cost be estimated.

To ensure a smooth ride for heavy vehicles, the approach road to the tunnel will require about 800 m on either side.

Jose Paul recalls the Fort Kochi boat accident seven years ago that claimed the lives of 11 passengers.

In 2015, Paul proposed an undersea tunnel to avoid such a tragedy and ensure seamless connectivity between Vypeen and Fort Kochi. Paul is also the former chairman of the Mormugao Port Trust.

Jose Paul, who was backed by Adv Majnu Komath, Goshree Action Council chairman, and Capt Phillip Mathew, MD, LOTS Shipping Limited, to take the project proposal to the Kerala government, received a positive response from experts with whom informal discussions on tunnel construction were held.

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