22 new foot overbridges on NH 66: Check the locations in Malappuram, Thrissur

Malappuram: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has approved the construction of 22 new foot overbridges along National Highway 66 between Ramanattukara and Kodungallur, with 14 planned in Malappuram district and eight in Thrissur.

The approvals cover the Ramanattukara–Kappirikkad and Kappirikkad–Kodungallur sections of NH 66. NHAI's Kochi Project Implementation Unit has asked the Malappuram and Thrissur district collectors to inspect the proposed locations and provide the necessary approvals.

A foot overbridge that is already under construction at Randathani in Malappuram is expected to open soon.

14 foot overbridges in Malappuram

The newly approved locations in Malappuram are University, Kohinoor, Velimukku, Kolappuram, Thangalpadi, Kozhichena, Kanjippura, Pandikasala, Chettan Moodal, Eswaramangalam, Theyyangad, Uroob Nagar and Puthuponnani.

At Puthuponnani, a modified design has been proposed following the intervention of MLA K.P. Noushad Ali. Instead of the standard 30-metre arrangement, the foot overbridge will be built within 16 metres using a 'dog-legged staircase' design, with the staircase arranged in two sections to reduce its overall length.

Eight locations in Thrissur

In Thrissur district, foot overbridges have been approved at Mannalamkunnu, Edakkazhiyur, Manathala, Engandiyur/Pokkulangara, Nattika Centre, Valapad, Kaipamangalam and Pallinada.

Land acquisition and safety assessment

In most locations, additional land, including private property, will be required to construct the foot overbridges. NHAI is seeking the support of the district administrations to address concerns and objections from landowners and reduce the possibility of delays.

The proposed sites will also be assessed for their suitability, access arrangements and compliance with road-safety requirements. NHAI has sought the involvement of elected representatives, local-government officials, the Kerala Road Safety Authority (KRSA), the Regional Transport Office, local bodies and police in evaluating the locations.

The exercise is aimed at identifying potential issues related to land acquisition, delays and local concerns before construction moves ahead. Early approval of suitable locations could also help ensure that the required safety infrastructure is implemented without unnecessary delays.

30 metres normally required

Under the standard requirement, a foot overbridge needs 30 metres in length and five metres in width. The Puthuponnani project is an exception to this requirement, with the 16-metre design made possible through the proposed dog-legged staircase arrangement.