Sreekaryam flyover: CM flags project lapses, warns of cost escalation

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan criticized the construction of the Sreekaryam flyover in Thiruvananthapuram, attributing delays to significant execution errors. He warned that the delay could cost the State exchequer millions of rupees. The Chief Minister revealed that the project was officially inaugurated in January 2025 by the previous administration before the plans and designs were finalized.

He also pointed out the delay in preparing the drawings and detailed designs, despite the design agency being assigned in June 2023. The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), responsible for the project, has launched new tender procedures to hire a replacement design team, while steps are being taken to address pending utility-related works.

The Kerala Water Authority is tasked with completing pipeline connections by October 30, and testing of large-diameter pipelines has commenced. Additionally, the relocation of memorials at the Sreekaryam junction remains unresolved. Satheesan highlighted this as another example of KIIFB-funded project failures and questioned the decision to work with a non-PWD agency.

Another issue raised by MLA M. Vincent concerned the railway overbridge at Balaramapuram, which has been delayed due to repeated revisions to the Detailed Project Report (DRP) since its administrative approval in 2018.