Vizhinjam-Navaikulam Outer Ring Road Project Gains Momentum in Kerala
Vizhinjam-Navaikulam outer ring road (ORR) project in Kerala has taken a significant step forward, with key land acquisition processes now under way. The project, which aims to ease congestion around the Vizhinjam International Seaport and improve connectivity in the region, has received strong backing from the Union Government. According to the Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Ajay Tamta, substantial progress has been made in acquiring land under the National Highways Act, 1956.
The government has completed the notification process under Section 3A of the National Highways Act, which allows the acquisition of land for public infrastructure. Additionally, the notification under Section 3D has been issued, covering 35% of the land required for the project. With the land acquisition moving forward, stakeholders are hopeful that the project will soon enter its construction phase.
Ajay Tamta, in his response to concerns raised by Attingal Member of Parliament (MP) Adoor Prakash, assured that the land acquisition process is progressing smoothly. He further stated that compensation payments to landowners would commence as soon as the declaration of awards under Section 3G is completed and the project receives the final approval. The Vizhinjam-Navaikulam ORR project has faced its fair share of challenges, particularly when it comes to land acquisition. The affected landowners, especially those who have lived and invested in the region for years, have expressed concerns over the impact of the project on their livelihoods. While the government is moving forward with the acquisition process, it is clear that the project will require careful management to balance development with the interests of the local communities.
In his letter to the MP, Tamta assured that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure that the compensation process is fair and transparent, with due consideration for landowners’ concerns. This response came after Prakash raised urgent questions in the Lok Sabha regarding the timely completion of the project, which is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in the state. The Vizhinjam-Navaikulam ORR is poised to be a game-changer in the region, particularly with the growing traffic pressures around the Vizhinjam International Seaport. The ORR will provide a bypass route for traffic, diverting it away from busy urban areas and making travel more efficient for both locals and visitors. The project is expected to not only improve connectivity within Kerala but also contribute to the state’s economic growth by improving access to the Vizhinjam seaport, which is a critical hub for international trade. Additionally, the outer ring road will enhance the movement of goods and services, supporting the ongoing development of infrastructure and industries in the region.
As the land acquisition process progresses, there is renewed optimism among stakeholders regarding the completion of the Vizhinjam-Navaikulam ORR project. The project is seen as a vital step in improving the region’s infrastructure, making it more accessible, and addressing long-standing traffic issues. With the final steps of the land acquisition underway, the project is expected to move into its next phase shortly. Once completed, the ORR will play a crucial role in shaping Kerala’s future growth, improving connectivity, and transforming the region’s transport network for the better. The Vizhinjam-Navaikulam outer ring road project marks a significant leap forward for Kerala’s infrastructure development. With land acquisition progressing and key notifications now issued, the project is on track to alleviate congestion around the Vizhinjam seaport and provide a much-needed transportation upgrade for the region. As the project moves towards construction, it promises to transform Kerala’s transport landscape, boosting connectivity and supporting the state’s ongoing economic development.
