Bridge project hits roadblock

Thiruvananthapuram: The disbursal of compensation to the remaining 15 landowners for the construction of the Vallakadavu bridge in the state capital has been delayed due to increased project costs. The Public Works Department (PWD) is awaiting an additional Rs 39 crore from the finance department to complete the compensation process. The tender for bridge construction will only be issued once compensation is fully disbursed.Initially, the PWD (bridges) division had planned to finalize land acquisition after the election model code of conduct was lifted. However, the state's ongoing financial difficulties have caused delays in releasing the necessary funds."Around 90% of the required land has already been acquired. We are awaiting approval from the finance department to disburse Rs 39 crore to the remaining 15 landowners. Once this is done, we aim to call for tenders in the coming months," a senior PWD official told TOI.Vallakadavu residents have been demanding a new bridge for over a decade, following the closure of the 136-year-old structure due to its deteriorated condition.Initially, Rs 27 crore was allocated for land acquisition, with Rs 15 crore already disbursed. The PWD bridges division has also received technical approval from the chief engineer.Currently, a temporary bridge is currently under construction to ensure smooth vehicle flow, while the new 500-metre bridge will be built on the left of the temporary structure, towards Valiyathura. Delays arose due to land acquisition and design changes, increasing the project's cost.