THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The road corridor connecting the domestic and international terminals of Thiruvananthapuram Airport is all set to undergo a major transformation under the ambitious City Beautification Project. The 6-km stretch, which serves as a vital gateway for passengers arriving and departing from the airport, will get a fresh makeover with enhanced landscaping, pedestrian-friendly amenities, improved walkways, lighting and visually captivating wall art that reflects the rich culture and history of Kerala and the capital city.
According to Rajesh P N, the state nodal officer for the City Beautification Project, the plan goes beyond beautification. “This project will focus on improving the walkability of the area, with functional elements such as seating areas, better signage, and artwork that speaks of the city’s heritage. It’s not just about making the area visually appealing; it’s about making it more interactive and comfortable for the public,” he said.
Rajesh said that the project is awaiting final nod from KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) -- the agency funding the project. “The project will be tendered immediately and the work is expected to begin within two months. The initiative will enhance the capital city’s appeal for both citizens and visitors,” he added. The project is expected to cost around Rs 8 crore and will be executed in four phases.
An official of the Thiruvananthapuram Development Authority (TRIDA) said that the corridor from Chackai Junction to ITI and from All Saints’ College to the domestic airport terminal will undergo massive makeover. “The stretch from ITI in Chackai to All Saints’ College comes under the expansion plan of the airport,” the official said.
Announced back in 2023-24, the government earmarked Rs 100 crore for the project that focuses on the beautification of Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode and Ernakulam cities. In Thiruvananthapuram, the project is implemented jointly by TRIDA and Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL). Three major projects have been taken up under the initiative.
Beautification of the Chackai flyover and developing the space underneath the bridge is one of the other projects taken up under the initiative. “The main focus will be to improving functionality and transform it into a very interactive and appealing space,” the official added.