The much-anticipated outer ring road (ORR) project in Thiruvananthapuram has gained momentum, following Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari’s assurance of granting final approval by July. The Rs 4,767-crore initiative is aimed at decongesting city traffic and improving connectivity to the Vizhinjam International Seaport. PWD Minister PA Mohamed Riyas confirmed the Centre’s clearance and stated the official order will be issued by the end of July.

In December 2024, the Centre had asked the state government to revise the Detailed Project Report (DPR), incorporating SGST exemptions and amendments to mining laws. The revised DPR was submitted in January 2025. Upon approval, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will begin compensating affected landowners and launch the tendering process. Compensation disbursement is expected to start in August.

Despite progress, affected landowners protested on May 7 outside the NHAI regional office in Chackai over delays in compensation. “We support development but not at the cost of our rightful compensation,” said action council convenor S Chandramohan Nair. The 80km, six-lane ORR, part of CRDP-II under Bharatmala Pariyojana, will be designated NH 866.