In a momentous step towards revolutionizing travel in North Kerala, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the first rock blast for the ambitious Kozhikode-Wayanad tunnel road project at Marippuzha in Kozhikode. This 7.776-km tunnel, part of the ₹4,152 crore initiative, promises to slash the arduous 90-km mountain journey between the districts to just 10 minutes, boosting tourism, trade, and daily commutes.
A Game-Changer for Kozhikode and Wayanad
The project, approved under the Kerala Road Fund Board (KRFB), connects Marippuzha in Kozhikode to Kaniyambetta in Wayanad through the Western Ghats. Unlike the current winding ghat roads prone to landslides during monsoons, this four-lane tunnel will feature state-of-the-art safety systems, including ventilation, fire-fighting tech, and earthquake-resistant design. For Kozhikode residents, this means seamless access to Wayanad’s lush hills, coffee plantations, and eco-tourism spots like Edakkal Caves and Chembra Peak.
Precision Blasting Amid Strict Protocols
Safety was paramount in this historic blast. Executed by the Hyderabad-based AFCONS Infrastructure Ltd, the operation used advanced German tunneling tech with micro-charges to minimize vibrations and environmental impact. Over 200 workers, monitored by geologists and safety experts, ensured zero disruptions to nearby areas. The controlled explosion cleared initial rock faces, marking the start of excavation set to complete by 2029.
Environmental clearances were rigorously followed, with measures to protect Marippuzha’s biodiversity hotspot. No wildlife disturbances were reported, and dust suppression systems kept air quality in check—a nod to Kerala’s green development ethos.