Construction of Perandoor-Vaduthala bridge commences

Kochi: Construction of Perandoor–Vaduthala bridge finally commenced on Tuesday after state govt approved a revised administrative sanction of Rs 34.24 crore.The vital infrastructure project, a long-standing demand of residents, will provide a crucial shortcut connecting Pachalam-Vaduthala areas to Perandoor. This link is expected to significantly decongest traffic heading to the city. "The initial estimate of Rs 32.33 crore was adjusted due to the transition from 2018 Delhi Schedule of Rates to 2021 standards. With technical sanctions in place and tendering completed, work has begun, starting with piling on the Perandoor side," T J Vinod, MLA, said. The total budget includes Rs 10 crore for land acquisition and utility shifting. As per the revised alignment, 34 cents in Perandoor and 55 cents in Vaduthala have been acquired. Furthermore, the project has secured all necessary clearances, including Coastal Regulation Zone approvals. The 153.60m long and 11m wide bridge will have three main spans (two measuring 25.70m and one 26m) and six land spans of 12.5m each. It will have a carriageway of 7.50m and 1.5m footpaths on both sides. Approach roads measuring 60m at Vaduthala and 55m at Perandoor sides, complemented by dedicated service roads, will be constructed. "Additionally, a Rs 5 crore proposal, including Rs 3 crore for land acquisition, has been submitted to connect Vaduthala approach road to Chinmaya Road. The same has received initial budgetary approval," the MLA said.