Munnar: The construction of the bridge across the Muthirapuzha River, a long-cherished dream of the people of Pothamedu, has reached its final stage. The bridge is being built close to the Headworks Dam at Old Munnar and will connect to the Pothamedu road.

The construction of pillars on both sides and the concreting of the bridge deck have been completed. Only the concreting of the approach decks on either side remains. Work is progressing rapidly, with completion targeted within two months.

The new bridge is being constructed at a cost of ₹6.80 crore. In the previous budget, ₹6 crore had been allocated for the project. However, when additional funds were required after the revised estimate, officials, including Devikulam MLA A Raja, approached the Finance Department and secured administrative sanction for the increased amount.

Once completed, the bridge will ensure seamless movement of both small and heavy vehicles to the Pothamedu area. At present, only smaller vehicles are allowed to access Pothamedu via the High Range Club Road, which is owned by a private company, or by crossing on top of the dam.

With the bridge becoming a reality, it will also greatly ease the traffic congestion experienced in Munnar Town and Old Munnar during peak tourism seasons. The gridlock can be relieved by rerouting vehicles toward Adimali via the Old Munnar Bypass from the Post Office Junction, allowing entry onto the High Range Club Road.