The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated the construction of two flyovers-cum-underpasses on either side of the bustling Edappally junction in Kochi.
This development is poised to transform one of Kerala’s most congested intersections, promising smoother traffic flow and reduced commute times for thousands of daily travelers. The project encompasses the erection of two 650-meter-long flyovers, each facilitating a 50-meter-wide underpass. Strategically positioned, one structure is being developed near Oberon Mall to the south, while the other is underway near the entrance of LuLu Mall to the north. These constructions are situated a few hundred meters from the existing Edappally flyover, which, alongside the Kochi Metro viaduct, currently limits expansion options directly at the junction.
A senior NHAI official highlighted the project’s progress, noting that construction near LuLu Mall has reached approximately 50% completion, while work near Oberon Mall has recently commenced. The ambitious target is to finalize both structures within a six-month timeframe, aiming to alleviate the chronic traffic snarls that have long plagued the area. The redesigned traffic flow plan eliminates right turns at the Edappally junction, thereby removing the need for traffic signals and enabling uninterrupted vehicle movement. For instance, vehicles traveling from Vyttila towards Aluva will proceed straight, execute a U-turn at the LuLu underpass, and then take a left onto the service road. Similarly, traffic from Cheranalloor heading to the city center will utilize the Oberon underpass for a U-turn before merging onto the service road.
This infrastructural enhancement is part of a broader ₹1,618-crore initiative to expand the Edappally-Moothakunnam stretch of NH 66 into a six-lane highway. Since the project’s inception in October 2022, approximately 60% of the work has been completed. However, challenges such as an acute shortage of red soil have necessitated the allocation of a new extraction site, prompting a revision of the completion deadline to January 2026. The Edappally junction’s transformation is not an isolated endeavor but a component of Kerala’s extensive infrastructure modernization. With the completion of flyovers at Kundannoor, Vyttila, and Palarivattom, the Aroor-Edappally stretch has witnessed improved traffic flow, inadvertently increasing vehicular pressure at Edappally. The current flyover-cum-underpass project is a strategic response to this shift, aiming to distribute traffic more evenly and reduce bottlenecks.
Beyond traffic decongestion, the project aligns with broader goals of sustainable urban development. By facilitating smoother traffic flow, the initiative is expected to reduce vehicular emissions, contributing to Kerala’s commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable city planning. Moreover, the improved infrastructure is anticipated to enhance road safety and accessibility, fostering a more equitable urban environment. As the NHAI continues to advance this pivotal project, the residents and commuters of Kochi can look forward to a more efficient and sustainable transportation network. The successful completion of the Edappally flyovers will not only alleviate current traffic woes but also set a precedent for future infrastructure developments aimed at creating zero net carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable cities.
Also Read : Mumbai’s Gokhale Bridge Fully Reopens After Seven Years
