NHAI plans upgrade for 17-km Kochi Container Road

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced plans to undertake a comprehensive renovation and safety enhancement project for the 17-km Container Road in Kochi, Kerala. The project, which will cost Rs 1.295 billion, signifies a major milestone as it marks the first significant overhaul of this national highway (NH) corridor since its commissioning in 2015. The purpose of this corridor is to establish direct connectivity between Angamaly-Edapally NH 544 and the Vallarpadam Container Transhipment Terminal. As part of the renovation efforts, service roads covering a distance of 10.4 km will also undergo improvements. Container Road, boasting 11 major bridges, a minor bridge, one constructed by GIDA, and 35 culverts, has been a subject of concern due to complaints from motorists regarding the sinking of approach roads to various bridges and culverts. NHAI officials have attributed this issue to a natural phenomenon occurring during the initial years after the road was reclaimed from backwaters and other water bodies. Additionally, this NH stretch is equipped with five pedestrian underpasses, two vehicle underpasses, five major junctions, and five minor junctions. A persistent safety problem along this route has been the illegal and obstructive parking of container lorries, many of which lack proper reflectors and tail lamps. This situation has posed a significant risk to two-wheeler riders, especially due to the inadequate lighting along the road. Despite the presence of six authorised truck parking bays, illegal parking continues to be a pressing issue. NHAI officials have taken these concerns seriously and have decided to initiate the renovation project to address the complaints and enhance safety measures for all road users.