Tirur: A decade after its completion, the Pottilathara Bridge is finally set to touch the ground. Following a prolonged delay, construction of the approach road is scheduled to begin next week. 

The bridge, built in 2015 as part of the Policeline–Ponmundam Bypass, spans the railway track. The railway authorities completed the bridge on time and handed it over to the State government. However, the authorities failed to construct the approach road, leaving the bridge suspended in mid-air.

Since then, the bridge has been a recurring topic during successive elections. Yet, no budget allocation was made for the approach road. Although the Public Works Department submitted an estimate of  ₹27.50 crores, it did not receive government approval.

Eventually, funds were sanctioned under the Central Government’s Sethubandhan Project. Although the funds were made available in 2023, government approvals faced further delay. After a prolonged wait, administrative and technical sanctions were granted and tender procedures were initiated by the end of February.

The onset of the monsoon further delayed the start of construction. Now, a decision has been made to begin the work, pending confirmation of the minister’s schedule. It is learned that Minister P A Muhammed Riyas will inaugurate the construction works next week.

Once operational, the bridge will significantly ease traffic congestion in Tirur town. Vehicles from Chamravattom Road will be able to access the Malappuram route via the bridge without entering the town. Work on the Ponmundam Bypass is also progressing. The construction of the fourth reach has commenced in February.