Labour and Material Shortages Halt Kozhikode Road Widening Project

Widening work on the Mananchira-Vellimadukunnu Road in Kozhikode has stalled due to a shortage of migrant workers from West Bengal and Assam and a scarcity of bitumen linked to the conflict in West Asia. An official from the Kerala Road Fund Board confirmed that while some workers have returned after the Assembly elections, material shortages continue to delay progress on tarring, footpaths, and drain slab construction.

The 8.34-km road, part of the Kozhikode City Road Improvement Project, began construction only in June 2025 despite being proposed in 2008–2009. The first 5.32-km phase from Mananchira to Malaparamba was inaugurated by Public Works Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas on March 9, 2026, though it remains incomplete due to delays in tree felling, utility line protection, and drainage work.

Unfinished slabs have left steel rods exposed, creating safety hazards, while some motorists are already using the road as two-way, raising traffic and safety concerns at Malaparamba. Residents and local experts have urged authorities to prioritise pedestrian access and wheelchair-friendly infrastructure as the city prepares for monsoon rains.

The second phase of the Malaparamba-Vellimadukunnu segment is under preparation, and officials are assessing timelines for completing pending works. The Kerala Road Fund Board has not confirmed a revised completion date for the full project.