Row over Puthukkad flyover in Keralam intensifies as NHAI rejects pillar-based design

The proposed design of the Puthukkad flyover on National Highway 544 has triggered fresh protests, with the Puthukkad Flyover People’s Committee challenging the National Highways Authority of India’s (NHAI) reported rejection of a pillar-based structure on technical and financial grounds.

The issue came into focus after Public Works Minister P.K. Basheer informed the Assembly, in response to a question raised by Puthukkad MLA K.K. Ramachandran, that the NHAI had found a flyover constructed on pillars impractical.

Independent assessment

Rejecting the position, the people’s collective has demanded an independent technical and environmental assessment of the alternatives, arguing that the proposed embankment-based design could have serious consequences for the town’s economy, drainage system and connectivity.

The committee warned that raising the highway with earth could create a massive barrier between two rivers, obstruct natural water flow and aggravate flooding in the eastern parts of Puthukkad, particularly during the monsoon. It has also sought a detailed assessment of the design in the context of the 2018 flood levels.

The proposed embankment could severely affect more than 4,000 traders by disrupting access to commercial establishments and changing the character of Puthukkad, the committee said.

Accessibility concerns

It also raised concerns over the accessibility of key public institutions, including the railway station, Fire and Rescue Services station, KSRTC bus stand and Mini Civil Station, said committee chairman Sebi Kodiyan.

Committee convener K.L. Jaison also criticised the NHAI for allegedly ignoring suggestions put forward by the local grama panchayat and block panchayat.

Disclosure of report

Questioning the claim that a pillar-based structure would be technically and financially unviable, the committee sought disclosure of the detailed feasibility report, comparative cost estimates and engineering assessments on which the NHAI had based its decision.

It also sought clarity on the source of the huge quantity of earth required for the proposed embankment, transportation costs and its long-term safety. The possibility of vested interests benefiting from the soil supply and transportation contracts should also be independently examined, it said.

“The people’s safety and the future of Puthukkad cannot be sacrificed in the name of technical constraints and additional expenditure,” the committee said.

It has demanded an independent expert panel to examine the feasibility of a pillar-based flyover, assess the environmental and economic implications of both designs and make the findings public.

The committee has also sought consultations with residents, traders and local elected representatives before a final decision is taken, insisting that the project must protect the town’s natural drainage, commercial activity and long-term development.