The greenfield Kochi-Theni expressway project has been put on hold

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has put on hold the 45-metre wide greenfield highway corridor project connecting Kochi and Theni.

The 151-km project was proposed about a decade ago to decongest the 121-km NH 85 corridor between Kochi and Munnar, which starts at Kundannoor Junction on the NH bypass here.

The greenfield corridor on NH 85 has not been cancelled. The project may take some time to complete as several technical and financial feasibility issues need to be resolved. The technical issues include completing the route of the greenfield highway through the ghat section and forest land. The NHAI is currently facing a similar problem in widening a 12-km stretch of the existing NH 85, which is flanked by forest land, it is learnt.

“We are currently focusing on developing the existing NH 85 by making optimum use of the available space on the predominantly dual carriageway,” official sources said. Meanwhile, NHAI has sanctioned an additional ₹160 crore for the existing NH 85 corridor reconstruction project.

“Additional funds will be used to provide a minimum 10m wide carriageway along the entire stretch, minimal land acquisition and straightening of curves where necessary. Additionally, pavers will be laid in Munnar city among others. A four-track line is planned at Adimali, while footpaths and guardrails will be constructed at selected places. The funds will also be used for re-laying of pipelines. The Kochi-Munnar NH 85 section may be completed by December,” sources said.

Responding to widespread complaints by motorists and pedestrians about inadequate lighting, road markings and curbs on the congested and high-accident Kundannoor-Pettah stretch, which falls under the Maradu municipal and Kochi Corporation limits, NHAI sources said steps would be taken soon to create road markings and strengthen shoulders.

In addition, with the help of the police, vendors and other encroachers occupying the roadsides and occasionally the tarred road will be removed.

Published – 07 Jun 2026 21:19 IST