Kochi Seaport Airport Road Project Set for Revival After Two Decades

Kochi is finally set to witness the revival of one of its most discussed infrastructure projects as construction of the remaining stretch of the Seaport Airport Road prepares to begin next month. The focus is on the crucial 2.7 kilometre corridor between HMT and the Naval Armament Depot area, a segment that had remained stalled for more than twenty years due to complex land acquisition and legal disputes.

With the disputed land officially transferred to the Roads and Bridges Development Corporation of Kerala, all major procedural hurdles have now been cleared. Fresh tenders have been issued after an earlier round saw limited participation. Officials confirmed that multiple bids have been received this time and the contract award process is nearing completion. Once formalities conclude, work will move forward on priority to ensure timely delivery.

The breakthrough follows sustained negotiations between the state government and central agencies, along with compensation settlements for HMT and defence land parcels. Administrative sanction has also been granted for the HMT NAD stretch, strengthening confidence that the project is now firmly on track.

Originally envisioned as a 25.7 kilometre arterial corridor connecting Irumpanam to Nedumbassery airport, the project was planned in two phases. While the southern stretch became operational years ago, the northern segment towards the airport faced prolonged delays. The new construction phase is expected to transform regional mobility.

Once completed, the Seaport Airport Road will significantly reduce congestion along the Edappally Kalamassery corridor and National Highway 544. It will offer faster access to Cochin International Airport for residents and businesses across the district. Improved connectivity between the port and the industrial belt at Kalamassery is also expected to lower logistics costs and enhance economic efficiency.

The long awaited revival signals renewed infrastructure momentum for Kochi, reinforcing its position as a key commercial gateway in Kerala.