The reconstruction of Muppalam (triple bridge) in Alappuzha municipality is nearing completion. The Public Works Department (PWD) is replacing three interconnected bridges with four bridges, collectively referred to as Nalppalam.
Officials said that 95% of the project had been completed and it would be opened next month. A meeting of the District Development Committee held recently reviewed the project. Officials of the PWD (Bridges Division) informed that painting and other finishing works on the bridges were progressing. The construction of the approach roads is expected to be completed by December end. Canal cleaning, retaining wall construction, handrails installation, and tile work on the footpath have already been completed.
The new Nalppalam will connect Vada canal and Commercial canal. Three of the bridges are 23 metres long and 7.5 metres wide, while the fourth is 26 metres long and 7.5 metres wide. The project has been implemented at a cost of ₹17.44 crore. The PWD initiated the steps to demolish the ageing Muppalam in August 2020. Though it was announced that the reconstruction would be completed within a year, the project got delayed due to various reasons.
Muppalam was constructed during British rule to link three roads. It was a popular location for film shoots.
Meanwhile, piling work for the reconstruction of the District Court bridge in Alappuzha town is progressing. As part of the project, the existing structure across the Vada canal will be dismantled. The existing bridge, with six roads merging at its two approaches, causes heavy traffic congestion.
As per the detailed project report, the new project is planned as a roundabout without signals. It includes a three-lane road on both sides of the canal, 5.5-metre-wide flyovers, a 7.5-metre-wide underpass, and 5.5-metre-wide ramps. Traffic will flow unidirectional on the flyovers and ramps, while the underpass will support bidirectional movement.
The project is being implemented at a cost of ₹120.52 crore, funded by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board.
Published – December 02, 2024 07:23 pm IST
