Kozhikode’s Aanakkampoyil-Kalladi tunnel project marks a pivotal step in connecting Kozhikode and Wayanad districts via a state-of-the-art twin-tube road. Recent updates highlight rapid progress in this ₹2,134 crore initiative, promising to slash travel times dramatically.
Project Overview and Specifications
The tunnel spans 8.73 km total, with 8.1 km comprising twin unidirectional tubes each featuring two lanes for four-lane traffic. It stretches 3.15 km in Kozhikode and 5.58 km in Wayanad, incorporating four-lane approach roads from Marippuzha to Meenakshi Bridge. Key specs include a 10-meter width per tunnel, 15 meters separation, cross passages every 300 meters, six curves, and coverage of 33 hectares 5,771 meters through forest and 2,964 meters on private land. This visual captures the tunnel’s strategic route through Wayanad’s terrain, emphasizing its engineering amid hilly landscapes.
Construction Timeline and Methods
Inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on August 31, 2025, rock excavation began early 2026 post-Forest Stage-II clearance. Hyderabad-based Dilip Buildcon handles the ₹1,341 crore EPC tunnel package (km 0.460 to 8.735, 8.275 km length), using Australian cut-and-cover drilling with precise rock drill boomers. Royal Infrastructure manages approach roads; full completion targets 2030. A March 2026 event at Marippuzha featured the first blast switch-on by the Chief Minister, accelerating hilly terrain development.
Implementing Agencies and Funding
Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd (KRCL) leads implementation, with KITCO as consultant, under a tripartite agreement involving Kerala PWD and Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB). Funded primarily by KIIFB at ₹2,043-2,134 crore, it reflects public-private synergy for high-risk ghat connectivity. Nearly 90% private land acquired, with forest transfers complete, enabling seamless progress.
Benefits for Travel and Economy
Travel distance shrinks from 42-50 km to 22 km between Anakkampoyil and Meppadi, easing ghat road perils like Thamarassery Churam. It boosts links to Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, spurring tourism, trade, and commerce in Wayanad’s spice-rich hills and Kozhikode’s coastal hub. Reduced congestion promises safer, faster interstate journeys, fostering regional growth.
Read more at: https://www.manoramaonline.com/district-news/kozhikode/2026/05/11/aanakkampoyil-kalladi-tunnel-construction.html