KRFB unveils redevelopment plan for Ernakulam-Kottayam highway

The Kerala Road Fund Board (KRFB) has announced plans to revamp nine key junctions along the Thripunithura SN Junction-Poothotta road on the Ernakulam-Kottayam highway. This redevelopment is a crucial component of the larger project aimed at transforming the 13.40-km stretch into a four-lane corridor with a width of 22 meters, ultimately enhancing connectivity between Ernakulam and Kottayam via Vaikom. The targeted junctions for improvement include SN Junction, East Fort Junction, Puthiyakavu, and Udayamperoor. A revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) that incorporates the development requirements of these nine junctions is expected to be finalised by April 2024. Subsequently, the laying of survey stones will commence, followed by the resumption of the land acquisition process, which had been temporarily halted due to compliance requirements and other obligatory procedures. In response to the need for a revised DPR for the corridor expansion, a contract has been tendered to conduct additional studies, including the placement of survey stones. The redevelopment of these junctions will adhere to the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) norms, ensuring a smooth and seamless flow of vehicles through the junctions.