Committee suggests ₹10-crore project to end undulations on S.A. Road

Thiruvananthapuram, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: An expert committee has submitted a report to the High Court regarding a ₹10-crore project proposed by the Kochi Corporation to resurface the 3.10-km long S.A. Road in the city. This initiative aims to eliminate the gaping and frequent level differences observed on the fast track adjacent to the Kochi metro pillars. The project has gained attention due to the potential risks posed to motorists and the overall traffic flow in the area, making it a significant point of discussion among local authorities and residents alike.

The Mayor of Kochi, V.K. Minimol, has emphasized the necessity for timely disbursal of funds for the S.A. Road project, noting that such undulations pose a problem on both sides of the Aluva-MG Road-Vyttila metro corridor. This corridor is a crucial transportation artery for the city, facilitating the movement of thousands of vehicles daily. "Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has been informed about the situation, and the Kochi Corporation will soon discuss it with the Minister for Public Works," she stated, highlighting the urgency of the matter.

When asked if the civic agency had sought financial assistance from Kochi Metro Rail Limited for the work along the metro corridor, the Mayor indicated that the metro agency had reported a lack of available funds for this purpose. This situation underscores the financial challenges faced by local authorities in managing infrastructure projects, particularly when multiple agencies are involved. The need for coordinated efforts and funding has become increasingly apparent as the city continues to grow and develop.

The metro agency has maintained that it is the responsibility of the road-owning agency to carry out restoration and resurfacing works, as the three-year defect liability period for the resurfacing works executed after the metro's commissioning has expired. This raises questions about accountability and the management of infrastructure maintenance, particularly in urban areas where rapid development can lead to unforeseen complications.

Engineers have suggested a more comprehensive approach to address the issues on the fast track, not only on S.A. Road but also on M.G. Road and Banerjee Road, arguing that this would provide a lasting solution to the problem. The interconnectivity of these roads is vital for the smooth operation of traffic in Kochi, and addressing the issues comprehensively could prevent future complications.

Gaping Level Differences

Yacub Mohan George, a former Deputy Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD), attributed the differential sinking of the earth beneath the road strip between two adjacent pile caps to weak soil conditions. He proposed that to strengthen the earth for compacting the subsoil, methods such as sand piling, PVD (polyvinyl drain), and wooden or coconut piles could be employed. Alternatively, a concrete land slab could be cast between the pile caps to mitigate sinkage. These engineering solutions are critical to ensuring the longevity and safety of the roadway, particularly in areas experiencing significant vehicular traffic.

The report submitted to the High Court by the expert committee indicated that the significant undulations were primarily caused by the settlement of the road's four-lane carriageway. Some locations on the road exhibit level differences of up to 300 mm between the metro pile cap and the slow track's kerb, adversely impacting the riding quality and safety of motorists. Such discrepancies not only create discomfort for drivers but also pose a risk of accidents, particularly for two-wheeler riders who are more vulnerable to abrupt changes in road conditions.

The proposed ₹10-crore project entails scarifying the existing bituminous surface over a width of 4.0 m on either side of the median at affected locations, correcting the level differences with wet mix macadam of the required thickness, and subsequently laying dense bituminous macadam and bituminous concrete layers. This multi-layer approach aims to create a stable and durable surface that can withstand the pressures of daily traffic.

Additionally, resurfacing is proposed for the full carriageway width of 11 meters on either side of the median to ensure a uniform riding surface. The project also includes thermoplastic road markings and the installation of reflective road studs to enhance traffic safety and riding comfort. These enhancements are intended to improve visibility and guide motorists, particularly during nighttime driving conditions.

A letter has been issued to the PWD to prepare a detailed estimate and outline steps to rectify such undulations on roads under its jurisdiction, as stated in the report. The cooperation between the Kochi Corporation and the PWD will be essential in moving forward with the project, as both agencies will need to align their efforts to ensure that the proposed solutions are implemented effectively.

The implications of this project extend beyond just the immediate repair of S.A. Road. It reflects a growing recognition of the need for sustainable urban infrastructure that can accommodate the demands of a rapidly urbanizing population. As cities like Kochi continue to expand, addressing issues related to road safety and maintenance becomes increasingly critical. The proposed measures can serve as a model for future projects aimed at improving urban infrastructure across India, where similar challenges are often faced.

Furthermore, the successful execution of this project could enhance public confidence in local governance and infrastructure management. Residents are likely to welcome improvements in road safety and driving conditions, which can contribute to a better quality of life in the city. In contrast, failure to address these issues may lead to increased public dissatisfaction and calls for accountability among local authorities.

In summary, the proposed ₹10-crore project to address the undulations on S.A. Road is a significant step towards improving road safety and infrastructure in Kochi. With the expert committee's recommendations and the support of local government officials, there is potential for meaningful progress in addressing the challenges posed by urban road maintenance. The outcomes of this initiative could set a precedent for future infrastructure projects in the region, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in urban planning and development.