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The Vizhinjam Navaikulam Outer Ring Road project in Kerala is awaiting environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for its revised alignment. The INR 8,000 crore project, part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana programme, aims to improve connectivity to the Vizhinjam International Seaport and ease regional traffic congestion. Earlier clearance was withdrawn after realignment to address ecological concerns. Once approved, authorities plan to start land acquisition and compensation for affected owners. Multiple procedural hurdles and alignment revisions have caused delays, but officials expect approvals to progress soon.
The Vizhinjam Navaikulam Outer Ring Road in Thiruvananthapuram district is moving toward obtaining environmental clearance for its revised route. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is reviewing the appraisal report submitted after the alignment was adjusted to address ecological and social concerns. Approval of this clearance is a critical step for the INR 8,000 crore highway, which has faced delays due to regulatory and procedural challenges. Advertisement
Earlier, the environmental clearance for the Vizhinjam Thekkada section was withdrawn when the project alignment was revised to include tunnels and modify sensitive stretches. A consultancy conducted a fresh environmental survey, and the report has now been submitted to the ministry. The revised route is under examination by the Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee, which is required before final approvals and financial closure.
Once environmental clearance is granted, authorities plan to begin land acquisition and disburse compensation to affected owners. In the past, delays in payments and procedural hurdles caused difficulties for landowners, drawing criticism from local communities and political representatives. NHAI officials have reiterated that these steps are progressing and procedural requirements will continue despite speculation about possible delays due to upcoming state elections.
The six-lane highway, which includes service roads, spans around 62-80km through approximately 30 villages between southern Vizhinjam and northern Navaikulam near the Kollam border. It is part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana initiative and is expected to significantly improve traffic flow in the region, while connecting the Vizhinjam International Seaport more efficiently to hinterlands and reducing congestion in Thiruvananthapuram city.
Past delays in the project were caused by alignment changes, procedural complications, and Supreme Court linked considerations. Land acquisition remained a significant challenge, with many landowners waiting for compensation that was initially linked to previous clearances. Authorities continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure smooth progression once clearance is received.
Beyond connectivity, the project is aligned with broader regional development plans, complementing initiatives around Vizhinjam port and other infrastructure improvements in Thiruvananthapuram. Officials note that the project's advancement is crucial for supporting economic activity in the area, particularly port-linked trade and logistics.
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