Thiruvananthapuram: The Union Government has agreed to construct a a new bridge parallel to the flood-hit bridge at Cheruthoni. The bridge and its approach road were damaged when the shutters of the Idukki dam was lifted early in August as rain intensified in Kerala. The Union Ministry of Surface Transport has given the nod as the matter was raised before it.
Th estimated cost of a constructing a parallel bridge at a higher level than the existing bridge is around Rs 15 crore, and a detailed project report on this would be sought, said Kerala Minister G Sudhakaran.
The Cheruthoni bridge which connects the Thodupuzha-Puliuyanmala national highway was built half a century ago. Joice George, MP, stated the Centre was informed on the need for an urgent bridge in the wake of unprecedented floods.