Nadapuram: The long-pending dream of better connectivity across the Mahe canal is set to become a reality, with the awarding of contracts for the construction of the Kaliyamvalli bridge and the Thayyil bridge now complete.

According to E K Vijayan, MLA, ₹32.86 crore has been allotted for the Kaliyamvalli bridge, while ₹42.02 crore has been sanctioned for the Thayyil bridge. These bridges, connecting the Vadakara and Nadapuram assembly constituencies, will come up across the Edacherry and Eranmala panchayats.

The Thayyil bridge will be 73 metres long and 11.5 metres wide, with approach roads of 400 metres on either side. The bridge will feature three spans, including two land spans and will maintain a clearance of 6 metres above the water level. Land acquisition for both the bridge and approach roads has already been completed.

The Kaliyamvalli bridge, meanwhile, is designed as an arch bridge with a length of 42 metres and a width of 12 metres. To ensure smooth passage of boats, the bridge will also maintain a clearance of 6 metres above the water level.

Authorities have already completed the restoration of the Nadapuram-Muttungal road to modern standards using KIIFB funds. Replacing the existing narrow bridge along this stretch with a wider structure has been a long-pending demand of the public.

The Muttungal–Pakramhalam Road connects the National Highway at Vadakara with the State Highway at Nadapuram, providing easier access to major cities, including Bengaluru, from Vadakara. Once the existing bridge is dismantled, a temporary bridge will be erected to facilitate transport until the new one is completed.

The Kaliyamvalli Bridge will be constructed by ULCC, while the Thayyil Bridge project has been awarded to Kasaragod-based M S Builders.