The Anakkampoyil-Kalladi-Meppadi tunnel road is a major infrastructure project connecting Kozhikode and Wayanad districts in Kerala with an 8.17 km twin-tube tunnel and 2+2 lane road. The central government granted final approval on February 24, 2026, for the ₹2,134.5 crore project, set to become Kerala’s longest tunnel road. The Union Environment Ministry issued Stage II forest clearance on February 25, requiring 17 hectares of compensatory forest land.
Project Overview
Spanning Kozhikode’s Anakkampoyil to Wayanad’s Meppadi, the ₹2,134 crore initiative includes approach roads, bridges, and advanced safety features like ventilation, CCTV, and fire systems. Executed by Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) with Kerala PWD and KIIFB, it reduces the Anakkampoyil-Meppadi route from 50 km to about 22 km.
Key Milestones
- Final Approvals: On February 24, 2026, the Centre approved the project; Stage II forest clearance followed on February 25, allowing 17.26 hectares of forest diversion with compensatory afforestation.
- Inauguration: Groundbreaking occurred in August 2025, led by then-CM Pinarayi Vijayan.
- Contract Awards: Dilip Buildcon handles tunnel construction; Punia Construction manages the Iruvazhinji bridge.
Construction Updates
Works kicked off in October 2025 with a temporary Marippuzha bridge and approach roads in Kozhikode. By November, machinery and labor camps were in place, paving the way for tunnel boring expected soon. Completion is targeted in four years.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 8.17 km twin tunnel |
| Lanes | 2+2 with four-lane approaches |
| Cost | ₹2,134 crore |
| Expected Impact | Cuts Kochi-Bengaluru distance |
Environmental and Wildlife Concerns
Nestled in the Western Ghats, the project traverses elephant corridors, sparking fears of heightened human-animal conflicts. Experts note the tunnel may divert wild elephants through Kalladi settlements, urging elevated paths or underpasses. No recent elephant incidents directly tied to construction were reported.
Boost for Malabar Region
This tunnel will spur tourism, trade, and economic growth in Wayanad’s hills and Kozhikode’s plains. Easier access to Meppadi’s tea estates and Kozhikode’s beaches could transform local livelihoods, though balancing ecology remains key.