Landowners in Balaramapuram are frustrated by delays in compensation for properties acquired for the Karamana-Kaliyikkavilai road widening project. While the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) is set to release INR 102 crore, financial delays have stalled progress, leaving 80 landowners unpaid. Despite INR 40 crore already disbursed, the total compensation needed is INR 97 crore. The project, aimed at creating a 30.2-metre-wide four-lane road, faces uncertainty as landowners threaten protests. The district administration cites financial constraints as the primary cause of delays, prompting calls for swift action to ensure timely compensation and the project's completion for regional connectivity.
Landowners in Balaramapuram are expressing growing frustration over delays in compensation for their properties acquired for the Karamana-Kaliyikkavilai road widening project. This project, which aims to improve the 1.5-kilometre stretch from Kodinada to Vazhimukku, is crucial for enhancing connectivity in the region. However, around 80 landowners are still waiting for compensation from the district administration's revenue department, prompting discussions of protests if the situation does not improve.
The Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) is expected to release INR 102 crore to ensure all landowners receive their due compensation. However, financial delays have stalled the project's progress, leading to uncertainty among landowners. Many have voiced their concerns, accusing the state government of inaction. Arun Sekhar, one of the affected landowners, stated that a large portion of landowners from Vazhimukku to Balaramapuram Junction had been compensated, but 80 landowners were still waiting. He noted that when they approached the revenue department, they were told their land documents were incomplete, which added to the delays.
District Collector Anu Kumari has acknowledged the situation, stating that the district administration is awaiting clearance from the finance department to release the remaining funds. Revenue authorities have indicated that financial constraints are contributing to the slow progress. In a meeting held in September, officials agreed to expedite the compensation process, but little progress has been made since. So far, approximately INR 40 crore has been disbursed, but the total required for land acquisition is estimated at INR 97 crore.
The road-widening project is significant for local development, as it aims to create a four-lane road with a width of 30.2 metres. Originally, plans included constructing an underpass at Balaramapuram Junction, but this was abandoned after local traders raised concerns about potential disruptions to their businesses. The revised plan focuses on improving traffic flow while addressing the needs of local stakeholders.
As the delays continue, landowners are becoming increasingly anxious about the future of their properties and the completion of the road project. The lack of timely compensation not only affects their financial stability but also raises questions about the efficiency of the government's land acquisition processes. The community is now looking for a clear timeline for compensation and construction to alleviate their concerns and restore faith in the project.
In conclusion, the Karamana-Kaliyikkavilai road widening project is facing significant challenges due to delays in compensation for landowners in Balaramapuram. As the district administration works to resolve financial issues, affected landowners hope for a swift resolution to their concerns, allowing the project to move forward and benefit the local community.
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