NHAI targets Dec launch for new Thiruvallom bridge

Thiruvananthapuram: The long-awaited parallel bridge at Thiruvallom, aimed at easing chronic traffic congestion and improving road safety at one of Thiruvananthapuram's busiest junctions, has entered its final phase of construction. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is targeting completion by Dec. Girder construction, a crucial milestone in the project, is currently under way, and the first casting is set to begin shortly. A total of nine girders will be installed for the 120-metre-long, 8-metre-wide bridge being built parallel to the existing Thiruvallom bridge. "The bridge work has entered the final stage and the target is to open it for traffic by Dec," an NHAI official said. Originally scheduled for completion by April 2025, the project hit a roadblock when the central archaeological department raised objections over its proximity to the historic Parasurama Temple, a centrally protected monument. Under heritage protection regulations, no construction is permitted within 100 metres of such sites, while work within a 200-metre radius requires special approvals. The concerns were subsequently resolved through technical clarifications, allowing work to resume without changes to the design. Once open, the bridge is expected to significantly ease congestion at Thiruvallom Junction, where traffic from multiple directions converges onto the bypass and adjoining city roads. The junction has long been a major bottleneck, notorious for traffic snarls, risky overtaking manoeuvres and frequent accidents. The new bridge will provide dedicated connectivity for vehicles travelling from Ambalathara towards Thiruvallom and Pachalloor, reducing dependence on the heavily congested bypass stretch. "Local traffic heading towards Thiruvallom and Pachalloor will be able to bypass the main highway once the bridge opens, improving both traffic flow and safety at the junction," the official said. Approach roads on both sides of the bridge are also under construction. Footpaths will be provided along the bridge, addressing a long-standing concern raised by residents and commuters regarding pedestrian safety. The project was sanctioned in response to repeated complaints about worsening congestion and rising accident rates at Thiruvallom Junction, which serves as a key entry and exit point to the city.