Design revision stalls flyover project

T'puram: The proposed flyover at Kumarichantha on NH 66 is likely to face further delays, with National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) expected to take at least another month to float the construction tender for the long-awaited project aimed at easing traffic congestion along the corridor.According to NHAI officials, tender document for project is currently under scrutiny at the regional office, delaying the next phase of the process. Officials said the tender is now likely to be floated only in July after the finalization of a revised flyover design."Certain revisions have been proposed in the flyover design to improve traffic movement and structural feasibility. Once the revised design gets final approval, the tender process can move ahead," an NHAI official said.The NHAI has reportedly decided to modify the original design of the proposed five-span flyover after technical evaluations and traffic assessments. The redesign is expected to address concerns related to vehicular flow, turning radii and land constraints at the congested junction.Kumarichantha Jn, located on the highly traffic-prone stretch between Enchakkal and Kovalam, witnesses severe congestion during peak hours. Sources said the revised design is likely to include improvements in entry and exit ramps, better traffic merging arrangements and provisions for safer pedestrian movement beneath the flyover. Officials are also examining utility relocation and drainage issues before issuing the final tender.Locals and commuters expressed frustration over repeated delays in the project, pointing out that traffic bottlenecks at Kumarichantha have worsened significantly in recent years.Initially, NHAI's plan called for a three-pillar design with 20m spacing between pillars and extensive embankments supported by retaining walls. However, residents and traders said the plan would restrict shop visibility, reduce access to business fronts, and pose soil stability risks following extensive soil filling, forcing officials to revisit the blueprint.