In collaboration with the National Highways (NH) Division of the Public Works Department (PWD), the process of acquiring about 2.45 acres of land has begun for the construction of the proposed Kunjali Markar memorial bridge connecting Iringal with the Vadakara sand banks. , The acquisition work begins in view of the completion of the environmental impact assessment, which had already approved one of the three alignments for the Rs 59 crore project.
According to the officials of the Revenue Department, land will be acquired from 42 owners of the area. The sand bank-Kottakadavu alignment has been shortlisted following an environmental impact assessment carried out by a Kannur-based agency. They also state that no landholder has made any major protest against the execution of the project.
An innovative design from the Design Research Testing and Quality Control Board under PWD is under consideration for a multi-crore project with a length of 564 metres. Paying tribute to Kunjali Marakkar, it will have a sword-theme already approved by the government. The Kerala State Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) will fund the project.
solar panels
Another proposal for installation of solar panels on the east-west side of the proposed bridge for power generation is also under consideration. The expected daily power generation for the grid connected project will be 142 kW. Considering its feasibility, the Kerala State Electricity Board is also expected to sign with the idea. If executed as per the plan, the solar project will generate electricity worth Rs 27 lakh annually. A detailed project report has also been submitted to KIIFB.
The completion of the bridge as part of the Coastal Highway Project will be a major boost for many tourism ventures in Vadakara and surrounding areas. Quick access to Vadakara Sandbank from Iringal is one of the major attractions. Officials also expect that the innovative design of the bridge will be a great attraction for tourists to the site.
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