Thiruvananthapuram: In a major step to strengthen Kerala’s road infrastructure, the Central Government has sanctioned ₹988.75 crore under the Central Road Fund (CRF) for upgrading and modernizing key road stretches across the state. The allocation, announced by the Ministry of Surface Transport and Highways, aims to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and improve road safety for citizens.
The financial assistance will cover 486.33 kilometres of road in various districts, targeting both urban arterial routes and rural connectors. Public Works Minister P.A. Muhammad Riyas welcomed the approval, stating that the funding would address long-pending infrastructure needs and bring much-needed relief to commuters and transporters alike. He emphasized that the initiative is a collaborative effort between the state and central governments to modernize Kerala’s road network.
According to officials, the funds will be used to widen, repair, and upgrade existing roadways, along with constructing bypasses and junction improvements at congested areas. Preparatory steps, including tendering and land acquisition, are expected to begin immediately, ensuring the timely execution of the projects. The government has stressed the importance of strict monitoring and quality control to prevent delays and ensure that the allocated funds are utilised effectively.
This central allocation complements Kerala’s own budgetary commitments for road infrastructure. In the recent state budget, the government earmarked ₹5,217 crore for the redevelopment of the Main Central (MC) Road, one of the state’s most important arterial highways. Plans include converting key stretches into a four-lane corridor and implementing bypasses at towns such as Kilimanoor, Nilamel, Chadayamangalam, Ayur, Pathanamthitta, and Chengannur to ease traffic congestion.
Additional funding has been released for projects like the Kottarakara bypass, where over ₹110 crore has already been sanctioned, and land acquisition is in progress. These combined efforts reflect the state’s strategic focus on improving both intra- and inter-district connectivity, crucial for economic growth, tourism, and local commerce.
Experts note that while the funding boost is significant, effective project execution will be key. Past reports have highlighted delays and quality concerns in some highway projects in Kerala, pointing to the need for enhanced coordination between government departments and contractors. Nevertheless, the current allocation is expected to accelerate road development and deliver tangible benefits to the public in the near future.
The move is widely seen as a step toward modernizing Kerala’s transportation infrastructure and ensuring that citizens across urban and rural areas can travel safely and efficiently. It also signals the Centre’s commitment to supporting state initiatives that enhance mobility and promote sustainable economic growth.