Kozhikode (Kerala): The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has granted final approval for the Anakkampoyil–Kalladi–Meppadi tunnel road project. Permission has been accorded to utilise 17.263 hectares of forest land under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The 8.73-kilometre tunnel road connecting Wayanad and Kozhikode districts is one of the largest infrastructure development projects in Kerala.

Work on the tunnel is progressing at pace. Thiruvambady MLA Linto Joseph said rock excavation for the tunnel will commence on March 3 at the Marippuzha section, with the Chief Minister set to perform the switch-on ceremony. The project, estimated to cost ₹2,134.5 crore, was inaugurated by the Chief Minister on August 31, last year. Construction is being financed through the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB). The special purpose vehicle (SPV) responsible for implementing the project is the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited. The project is scheduled for completion within four years. The contract has been awarded to Dilip Buildcon, headquartered in Bhopal, and Royal Infrastructure, based in Kolkata.

Approval comes with strict conditions

  • Compulsory compensatory afforestation on an equivalent extent of non-forest land.
  • At least 1,000 saplings must be planted per hectare within two years.
  • Tree felling must be minimised to the maximum extent possible.
  • Strict compliance with wildlife protection measures is mandatory.
  • Labour camps shall not be established within forest land.
  • No new roads may be constructed inside the forest for transporting construction materials.
  • Forest land shall not be used for any purpose not specified in the approved project proposal.
  • A total of 24 conditions have been stipulated in the order.
  • The Divisional Forest Officer will monitor the project activities.
  • All conditions laid down in the environmental clearance must also be strictly adhered to.