Four-laning of NH in Ker capital to be a reality: Tharoor

The four-laning of the Kazhakuttam-Kaliyikkavila NH bypass, a major artery across Thiruvanathapuram, stretching upto Tamil Nadu border, would be a reality soon with the National Highway Authority of India calling bidders for the work.
While informing this, MoS for HRD Shashi Tharoor today said, "With the invitation of Request for Qualification (RFQ) and subsequent selection of the bidder, all hurdles had been cleared for starting the first reach of the work".
Acquisition of land for the remaining stretch of the highway from Mukkola to Kaliyikkaviala was fast progressing and the district-level purchase committee would soon finalise their recommendations on the compensation package for those who gave away land for the project, Tharoor, who represents Thiruvananthapuram in the Lok Sabha, told reporters here.

"The last date for the submission of the RFQ will be October 4. The tendering of the work will mark the end to the long wait for a world-class carriageway for the state. It will not only reduce the traffic congestion but also accelerate the development in the state capital (Thiruvanathapuram) and surrounding areas," he said.
The NHAI expects to complete the entire project, estimated to be Rs 1,100 crore, within 24 months, Tharoor said.
On allotting High Court bench here, the minister said only Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court could do anything in the matter as of now.