NHAI Initiates Six-Lane Elevated Highway Between Aroor and Edappally to Ease Kochi Traffic

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken a significant step to decongest one of Kerala’s busiest road corridors by initiating plans for a six-lane elevated highway connecting Aroor to Edappally in Kochi. This move follows the near completion of the Aroor–Thuravoor elevated highway, which has already started transforming traffic movement in the region.

Spanning 14.64 km, the new corridor will link Edappally Junction near Oberon Mall to Aroor Junction, running along the busy NH-66. Designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing right-of-way, the elevated highway aims to bypass critical urban choke points, including Palarivattom, Vyttila, and Kundanoor, providing a smoother commute for thousands of daily travelers. The stretch currently handles nearly one lakh passenger car units each day, making congestion relief a high priority for both commuters and city planners.

A revised alignment has been finalized to account for the upcoming Kochi Metro viaduct at the Palarivattom Bypass Junction. NHAI has floated a tender for a detailed project report (DPR), which is expected to be submitted within six months. Construction is slated for completion in approximately three and a half years, promising a modern infrastructure solution that reduces travel time and improves traffic efficiency.

Minimizing additional land acquisition was a key focus of the project, reflecting NHAI’s effort to balance urban development with environmental and social considerations. Once completed, the elevated highway will not only decongest Kochi’s major traffic corridors but also support smoother movement for commercial vehicles, public transport, and daily commuters along NH-66.

This initiative is part of NHAI’s broader commitment to upgrade highway infrastructure in Kerala, enhance road safety, and improve regional connectivity. For Kochi residents and businesses, the Aroor–Edappally elevated highway represents a vital step toward modern, efficient, and sustainable urban mobility.