The Public Works Department (PWD) of Thiruvananthapuram is preparing to issue a fresh tender for the long-awaited refurbishment of the Muttathara-Valiyathura Road.
This crucial artery, which also services the Kallumoodu area and the domestic airport terminal, has been severely deteriorated for over a year. The road, pivotal for passengers travelling from Tamil Nadu to the airport, has faced persistent issues due to the unsatisfactory bids received in previous tendering attempts. Despite four previous tenders, each attempt to repair the road has been thwarted by bids exceeding the estimated project cost of Rs 7.5 crore by approximately 10%. The project, funded by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), has struggled with cost overruns and the rejection of all submitted bids.
Ajith Ramachandran, the Chief Engineer (Roads) for PWD, revealed that this forthcoming tender will be the department’s final effort to expedite the restoration of this vital route. The high costs associated with the project have led to the rejection of past bids, and Ramachandran indicated that if bids exceed the budget by the same margin in the upcoming tender, they will be forwarded to the state cabinet for special approval. He assured that should this occur, the process will be expedited, allowing for work to commence within a month of tender acceptance. The road’s continued poor condition has been a significant inconvenience for commuters. Frequent traveller Maneesh VP expressed frustration, stating that the road’s state poses a risk to vehicles and disrupts travel plans. Shop owners, including Musthafa Hussain, have also voiced concerns about the road’s impact on local businesses.
Hussain noted that the road’s potholes are driving away customers and causing damage to vehicles, thereby affecting business operations. Local residents and business owners alike are urging the authorities to address the situation promptly. The persistent delays have exacerbated the road’s deteriorating condition, making it imperative for the PWD to succeed in this final tender attempt to restore the road to a usable state.
