The long-standing proposal to transform the Ramanattukara–Kozhikode airport road into a national highway has finally received its crucial approval from the Union government. This significant decision directs the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to swiftly prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the project. A specialist agency will soon be appointed to develop this DPR, which will outline the plan to upgrade the 12-kilometer stretch into a modern four-lane road, aligning with the latest proposal from the State government.
Frequent commuters and local residents have long voiced concerns over the severe traffic bottlenecks on the current road, which significantly impacts travel to and from Kozhikode International Airport. V.M. Hashim, a key figure in the local action council advocating for this road’s enhancement, expressed optimism that achieving National Highway status will be a game-changer. He believes this upgrade will make the airport a far more convenient hub for international travelers, business professionals, and regular flyers alike.
Kerala’s Minister for Public Works and Tourism, P.A. Mohamed Riyas, affirmed the State government’s full commitment to supporting the NHAI. He pledged to ensure all necessary follow-up actions are taken to guarantee the project’s prompt completion. Minister Riyas also noted that a comprehensive feasibility study had already been conducted by the Public Works Department (PWD) in response to overwhelming public demand.
In a recent communication, Minister Riyas disclosed that the State government is also eagerly awaiting approval for three additional road projects to be designated as national highways: the Chovva–Mattannur, Kodungalloor–Angamali, and Vypin–Matsyafed roads. Furthermore, he confirmed that recommendations for the development of the Kothamangalam and Muvattupuzha bypass roads are also being advanced.
PWD officials highlighted that upgrading the Ramanattukara–Airport road will dramatically improve access to NH-66, ensuring a much smoother flow for both heavy and light vehicles. They are confident that, given the road’s approximate length of 13 kilometers, the project can be expedited efficiently.
A senior Revenue department official confirmed that approximately 12 hectares of land will be required for acquisition between the Ramanattukara junction and Kolathur, near Kondotty. A Deputy Collector has already been assigned to manage these land acquisition procedures. Discussions between Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Minister Riyas, and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari have already taken place to propel the project forward.