CM to convene meeting over Rs 14-crore bridge

KOCHI: Chief minister Oommen Chandy will convene a meeting with peoples' representatives on Wednesday to resume construction of Rs 14-crore bridge connecting Station Kadavu and Valiapazhampillithuruthu at Puthenvelikkara in Paravur.
The work on the bridge across Periyar came to a halt around six months ago after the Roads and Bridges Development Corporation of Kerala Ltd (RBDC-K) terminated the service of the contractor for inefficiency in completing the work.
"The construction of the bridge began two years ago, and work of four piles was completed at a cost of Rs 2.5 crore. Work was disrupted many times," said Paravur MLA V D Satheesan.
"A decision on resuming the work will be taken at the meeting. Once completed, the bridge will help people in Puthenvelikkara, NH14 and Paravur to reach Chalakudy and Mala. Currently, they have to travel through Aluva to go to these places. Though there are bridges in Puthenvelikkara, which is an island, the upcoming bridge will be the major one connecting people with the mainland," he said.
The 340m bridge is expected to have a width of 11m. The construction of the bridge was to be completed in 18 months.
The width of the bridge is 11m and length 340m
Costs Rs 14 crore, spent Rs 2.5cr so far
Being constructed by Roads and Bridges Development Corporation of Kerala
Decided to complete work in 18 months