THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Landowners in Balaramapuram are demanding swift compensation for their properties, which were acquired for the Karamana-Kaliyikkavilai road widening project spanning the Kodinada-Vazhimukku stretch, including Balaramapuram town. Despite assurances, around 80 landowners are yet to receive compensation from the district administration’s revenue department, leading to frustration and plans for protests if delays persist.
Kerala infrastructure investment fund board (KIIFB) is required to release Rs 102 crore to fully compensate the remaining landowners, yet the delay in funding has caused both uncertainty and stagnation in the project’s timeline.
Landowners have accused state govt of lethargy, alleging a lack of urgency in disbursing payments for the development of the 1.5km four-lane road.
“A large portion of landowners from Vazhimukku towards Balaramapuram Junction has been compensated. However, 80 landowners are still waiting,” said Arun Sekhar, a landowner. “When they approached the revenue department, they were informed that their land documents were incomplete or outdated, and instructed to update their title deeds. This has added further delays,” he added.
Meanwhile, district collector Anu Kumari told TOI that the district administration is awaiting clearance from the finance department to release the remaining compensation funds. According to revenue authorities, financial constraints are contributing to the delay.
At a monthly meeting held in Sept, officials agreed to expedite the process, but progress has remained slow. Thus far, approximately Rs 40 crore has been disbursed, while the total needed for land acquisition is estimated at Rs 97 crore.
The development of the 1.5km road section has seen extended delays. Initially, officials projected compensation completion by Feb, with construction slated for April; however, substantial work is yet to begin.
The road-widening plan includes a 30.2m width, abandoning an earlier proposal for an underpass at Balaramapuram Junction after local traders voiced concerns.
