Kozhikode: The first controlled rock blast for the proposed Anakkampoyil–Kalladi–Meppadi twin tunnel road project was carried out on Friday, formally launching excavation work for the major link between Kozhikode and Wayanad districts.

Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the blasting process at Marippuzha in Kozhikode district under strict safety arrangements, signalling a key step in the construction of the 8.73-km tunnel road.

Controlled blast launched under tight safety measures

The controlled explosion took place at the entrance of one of the proposed tunnel tubes after the Chief Minister activated the blasting system. Explosives placed at the site were then detonated, marking the start of rock cutting for the project.

Entry to the project site was restricted because of safety precautions. Instead, hundreds of local residents and representatives of local bodies gathered at the Muthappanpuzha ALP School, where the blast was broadcast live at around 12.15 pm. The video has also emerged on media.

The event was presided over by Public Works Minister P. A. Mohamed Riyas. Forest Minister A. K. Saseendran, MLA Linto Joseph and Syro-Malabar Bishop Remigiose Inchananiyil were also present.

Following the blast, the Chief Minister interacted with engineers about the next stages of the work and upcoming construction activities.

Preparations completed before blasting

Officials said the rock blasting was undertaken only after several preparatory steps were completed at the site.

These included building a temporary bridge, installing fuel tanks, and setting up labour camps and crusher units needed for excavation operations.

The project had earlier received Stage-II environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The approval allowed diversion of 17.26 hectares of forest land under provisions of the Forest (Conversion) Act, 1980.

The ministry also imposed 24 conditions to protect the surrounding ecology. These include clear demarcation of the diverted forest land, compensatory afforestation on an equal extent of non-forest land and planting at least 1,000 saplings per hectare within two years.

Major road link planned between Kozhikode and Wayanad

According to the Public Works Department, the Anakkampoyil–Kalladi–Meppadi twin tunnel road will run 8.73 km, connecting the Annakkampoyil area in Kozhikode district with Meppadi in Wayanad.

The project is considered one of the largest infrastructure initiatives in the state.

Construction began after it was opened by the Chief Minister on August 31, 2025. The work is monitored by the PWD and funded by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board.

Implementation is being carried out by the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited as the special purpose vehicle. The construction contract has been awarded to Dilip Buildcon of Bhopal and Royal Infrastructure.

The project has an estimated cost of ₹2,134.5 crore and is scheduled to be completed within four years.