Sabarimala Roads Set for Major Upgrade as Seven Routes to Become National Highways
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has decided to upgrade seven key roads leading to Sabarimala into National Highways. The roads, which are currently State Highways, will be recommended for National Highway status by the state Transport Department to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has reportedly assured the state that the proposal will be considered once the recommendation is submitted.
The decision follows a recent meeting between Kerala Transport Minister C.P. John and the Union Minister.
Upgrading these roads to National Highway status is expected to bring significant improvements, including road widening, enhanced infrastructure, and better maintenance. The project will also facilitate improved drainage systems, upgraded roadside amenities, and modern rest areas for pilgrims. Since these are major pilgrimage routes to Sabarimala, authorities are expected to develop high-quality wayside facilities along the highways.
National Highway status would also enable the National Highways Authority to straighten dangerous curves, acquire land where necessary, and undertake other infrastructure improvements to ensure safer and smoother travel.
The seven proposed roads pass through districts from Kollam to Ernakulam and include some of the busiest pilgrimage routes to Sabarimala. Among them is the 80-km Mundakkayam–Pamba State Highway via Erumely, one of the most frequently used routes by Ayyappa devotees.
The 54-km Mundakkayam–Pamba road via Koruthode has also been included in the proposal.
Another proposed route is the 30-km Thiruvalla–Kumbazha State Highway. The 87-km Chengannur–Pamba State Highway, another major pilgrimage corridor, is also slated for National Highway status.
The list further includes the 18-km Pathanamthitta–Pandalam State Highway, the 110-km Punalur–Muvattupuzha State Highway, and the 45-km Mannarakulanji–Chalakkayam road, another important access route to Sabarimala.
The state government aims to initiate the first phase of the project before the commencement of this year's Sabarimala pilgrimage season. The Transport Department will coordinate with the National Highways Authority to expedite the acquisition and approval processes.
The proposal is expected to receive positive consideration, as Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has generally maintained a supportive approach toward Kerala's transport infrastructure development initiatives.