Kochi: In a significant step towards improving rural connectivity, the Kerala government has announced a ₹1,000 crore initiative to repair damaged roads across the state. This move, spearheaded by the Local Self Government Department, is seen as a timely effort with local body elections on the horizon. MLAs have been instructed to identify and compile a list of damaged roads within their constituencies in consultation with local bodies and submit the details to the Finance Department.
The budget allocation for the financial year 2024-25 will fund the restoration of roads maintained by local bodies, prioritizing those that connect key infrastructures such as highways, schools, hospitals, colleges, and tourism hubs. Roads affected during the initial phase of the Jal Jeevan Mission will also receive urgent attention. Notably, approximately 45,000 kilometers of roads across Kerala’s panchayats were excavated for the mission, and contractors are yet to receive ₹4,500 crore in pending payments, further delaying repairs.
To expedite the process, administrative and technical approvals are scheduled for December 20 and December 31, respectively. Tenders must be finalized by February 15, with the repair work slated for completion by April 2025. The Assistant Engineers of local panchayats, municipalities, and corporations will oversee the project execution, while block panchayat engineers will manage roads crossing multiple jurisdictions. This comprehensive plan aims to improve road quality and connectivity, benefiting both residents and the local economy.
