PWD sets target to build 350 bridges, 15,000 km of BMBC roads in five years in Keralam

Representational photo.

The Public Works Department (PWD) has rolled out an ambitious infrastructure development programme to modernise the State’s road and bridge network. The government aims to construct 350 bridges and upgrade 15,000 km of roads to Bituminous Macadam and Bituminous Concrete (BMBC) standards during its current tenure. According to PWD Minister P.K. Basheer, administrative sanction has been granted for projects worth ₹2,000 crore in the first six months of the government in office.

A comprehensive package will be prepared for the development of major junctions, bypasses, and flyovers across the State. Projects will be implemented based on a prioritised list, following the receipt of a study report to be submitted by a committee chaired by Shajahan, IAS, the Minister said. Special emphasis will be placed on developing junctions plagued by severe traffic congestion, as well as on the construction of new bypasses and flyovers.

Additionally, there is a plan to develop selected cities under the ‘City Road Improvement Project.’ As part of this process, a meeting with MLAs has been convened to invite their suggestions and feedback, he added. Administrative sanction has also been granted for 90 road projects related to the Sabarimala pilgrimage, with an outlay of ₹551.50 crore. Additionally, administrative sanction has been accorded for 126 road projects, included in the 2026-27 financial year Budget, at a cost of ₹260.28 crore. The tender process for these works is currently under way. Furthermore, proposals for 11 road projects under the Sabarimala scheme (estimated at ₹29.95 crore) and 136 road projects included in the budget (estimated at ₹338.46 crore) are currently under the government’s consideration.

To ensure the timely completion of these projects, greater opportunities will be given to contractors with strong professional experience and technical expertise, the Minister said, adding that this approach would invigorate the construction sector and accelerate the execution of the projects in the State.

“The government’s objective is to upgrade Keralam’s road and bridge infrastructure to modern standards. Our priority is to create high-quality infrastructure that ensures both convenience and safety for the public,” said the Minister.