Kochi: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in his capacity as Chairman of Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), has announced that the construction of three new bridges being developed under CIAL’s Operation Pravah initiative will be completed within 18 months. The Chief Minister made the announcement on September 27, 2025, while inaugurating the commencement of works at Puliyampilly, Madathimoola, and Chowara, involving a total investment of ₹40 crore.
The bridge development is part of Operation Pravah, CIAL’s major infrastructure and flood-mitigation programme aimed at protecting and improving the areas surrounding the airport, which are prone to heavy monsoon flooding. The new bridges will enhance connectivity across several panchayats and ensure smoother local transit during peak travel and rainy seasons.
Under the project:
- The Puliyampilly bridge will span 200 metres, enhancing access between Thuravunkara and Pirarur.
- The Chowara bridge will be 114 metres long, improving connectivity to Neduvannur South.
- The Madathimoola bridge, measuring 177 metres, will link Kaprassery West and Purayar.
Residents across Chengamanadu, Sreemoolanagaram, Kanjoor, and Kalady panchayats are expected to benefit significantly, with better road access, reduced travel time, and improved resilience during flooding.
“CIAL has always prioritized public welfare and regional development alongside airport growth. A major share of CIAL’s profits continues to be invested in local infrastructure and community-focused projects,” the Chief Minister said while addressing the ceremony.
Industries Minister P. Rajeeve chaired the event. Also present were Benny Behanan, MP; Anwar Sadath and Roji M. John, MLAs; Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak; CIAL Managing Director S. Suhas; and Airport Director Manu G.
The bridges are expected to play a key role in strengthening Kerala’s model of public infrastructure development driven by a profit-making public enterprise, reinforcing CIAL’s status as a national example of community-driven airport development.
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