Digital News Guru Kerala Desk:
Kerala Tunnel Road Project Deferred Amid Environmental Concerns
The proposed Kozhikode–Wayanad Tunnel Road project in Kerala, envisioned to enhance connectivity between Kozhikode and Wayanad districts, has encountered a significant setback. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has deferred its approval, citing serious environmental and geological concerns .
Project Overview
The Kozhikode–Wayanad Tunnel Road is a proposed twin-tube tunnel project aimed at providing an alternative route between Anakkampoyil in Kozhikode and Meppadi in Wayanad. Spanning approximately 8.17 kilometers, it is poised to be one of India’s longest underpasses. The project aims to reduce the distance between the two regions from 42 kilometers to less than 20 kilometers, thereby improving transportation efficiency and fostering economic growth .
- Route: The project aims to construct an 8.75 km twin-tube tunnel connecting Anakkampoyil in Kozhikode to Meppadi in Wayanad, serving as an alternative to the congested Thamarassery Ghat Road.
- Implementing Agencies: KITCO Ltd. is the project proponent, with Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd. overseeing implementation. Dilip Buildcon Ltd. has been awarded the tunnel construction contract, while Royal Infrastructure Company will handle the approach roads
Environmental and Geological Concerns
The EAC’s decision to defer approval stems from the project’s location in an environmentally fragile region prone to landslides. The proposed tunnel passes through areas classified as Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats, which are home to diverse flora and fauna. The committee emphasized the need for comprehensive studies evaluating the potential impacts of the project, considering the latest scientific literature on similar projects .
- Landslide-Prone Area: The tunnel’s alignment passes through regions that experienced devastating landslides in 2019 and 2024, including Chooralmala and Mundakkai, which resulted in significant loss of life and property .
- Ecologically Sensitive Zones: The proposed route cuts through areas designated as Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESAs) in the Western Ghats, home to endangered species like the Banasura Laughingthrush and Nilgiri Sholakili .
- EAC’s Stance: The EAC has requested comprehensive studies on geology, landslides, and water drainage, along with detailed mitigation plans to address potential environmental impacts before reconsidering approval .
Historical Context: 2024 Wayanad Landslides
The region’s vulnerability was tragically highlighted by the 2024 Wayanad landslides, which resulted in over 420 deaths and displaced approximately 10,000 people. Heavy rains triggered landslides in villages such as Chooralmala and Mundakkai, areas in proximity to the proposed tunnel route . These events underscore the geological instability of the region and the potential risks associated with large-scale infrastructure projects.
State-Level Approvals and Conditions
Despite the EAC’s deferment, the State-Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) had earlier granted environmental clearance for the project, albeit with 25 stringent conditions. These include implementing real-time landslide monitoring systems, conducting micro-mapping of vulnerable zones, and ensuring construction practices that minimize ground vibrations to prevent triggering landslides .
Public Sentiment and Environmental Advocacy
The project has elicited mixed reactions from the public. While some residents and officials advocate for the tunnel, citing improved connectivity and economic benefits, environmental groups and local communities express deep concerns. They argue that the project’s potential ecological impact and the region’s susceptibility to natural disasters necessitate a more cautious approach .
Conclusion
The deferment of the Kozhikode–Wayanad Tunnel Road project’s approval by the Union Environment Ministry’s EAC highlights the complex interplay between developmental ambitions and environmental stewardship. As Kerala continues to grapple with the challenges of infrastructure development in ecologically sensitive areas, the need for comprehensive environmental assessments and community engagement becomes increasingly paramount.
Environmental groups have criticized the SEAC’s approval, arguing that the prescribed conditions may not sufficiently mitigate the project’s ecological risks. They emphasize the need for a more cautious approach given the area’s vulnerability to natural disasters .
The proposed Wayanad Tunnel Road Project in Kerala has encountered a significant development. While the State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) granted environmental clearance for the project, the Union Environment Ministry’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) has deferred its approval, citing serious environmental and geological concerns.
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