Thiruvambady (Kozhikode): Work on the Anakkampoyil-Kalladi-Meppadi tunnel road project, which will connect Kerala's Kozhikode and Wayanad districts, is progressing steadily, with excavation under way from both ends of the twin-tunnel system. 

Officials said more than 50 metres have already been excavated in the right-side tunnel. Excavation has also started in the left-side tunnel, while construction activities are continuing simultaneously at the Kalladi section in Meppadi.

Despite continuous rainfall in the hill regions, work has not been affected, according to officials. Construction is being carried out round the clock in 24-hour shifts.

The tunnel is being built using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM), a technique widely used in challenging mountain terrain and varying geological conditions.

NATM chosen for mountain terrain

The New Austrian Tunnelling Method is an advanced tunnel construction technique that relies on phased excavation, immediate support systems and continuous monitoring of ground conditions.

Unlike conventional approaches that depend heavily on rigid steel structures, NATM uses the surrounding rock formation as part of the tunnel's load-bearing system. Excavation is carried out in stages rather than in a single operation.

Once a section is excavated, a primary support lining comprising sprayed concrete, known as shotcrete, and rock bolts is installed to stabilise the surrounding rock.

The method also involves continuous geotechnical monitoring through instruments such as ground settlement markers, inclinometers, piezometers and strain gauges. Engineers can then modify support systems and reinforcement measures based on changing ground conditions.

NATM is considered a cost-effective alternative to large tunnel boring machines and is particularly suited to fragile geological formations and mountain regions where rock conditions can vary significantly.

Work started in March

Excavation of the rock section began in March 2026 after the project was inaugurated by then Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

A temporary bridge across Marippuzha has already been completed, providing access for construction activities.

The project is being implemented at an estimated cost of ₹2,134.5 crore, with Konkan Railway Corporation Limited serving as the implementing agency.

The tunnel construction contract has been awarded to Bhopal-based Dilip Buildcon. The contract for the steel bowstring bridge that forms part of the project has been awarded to Haryana-based Poonia Construction.

Steel bridge work set to begin

A steel bowstring bridge is planned across the Iruvanjippuzha river at Marippuzha as part of the project.

CR Sajith, Deputy Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department and nodal officer for the project, told Mathrubhumi that construction of the bridge is expected to begin soon.

Completion targeted within four years

The tunnel road will have a total length of 8.735 kilometres, making it one of Kerala's major road infrastructure projects.

Officials expect the project to be completed within four years.

Meanwhile, the Environment Appraisal Committee is scheduled to visit the project site on June 21 as part of the ongoing review process.