The Thiruvananthapuram Outer Ring Road (ORR), also known as the Outer Area Growth Corridor (OAGC), is an approved 6-lane access-controlled highway project by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). This greenfield expressway, designated as NH-866, will encircle Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the capital city of Kerala, providing enhanced connectivity &facilitating economic growth in the region.
Salient features of the Project:
| Project Name | Thiruvananthapuram Outer Ring Road (ORR) or Outer Area Growth’Corridor (OAGC) |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 62.20 kilometers |
| Lanes | 4 (expandable to 6) |
| Right-of-Way (ROW) | 70 meters |
| Project Cost | INR 4,868 crores |
| Status | Land Acquisition and Bidding Underway |
| Owner | National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) |
| Project Model | Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) |
The Thiruvananthapuram ORR comprises two sections, known as “rings.” The Northern Ring spans 29.25 kilometers from Navaikulam upto Thekkada, while the Southern Ring covers 33.4 kilometers from Thekkada to Vizhinjam. The Southern Ring includes a 12.659 kilometer expressway connecting Thekkada and Mangalapuram. The ORR aims to enhance the’ connectivity between these key locations &the Vizhinjam Port as part of the Capital Region Development Programme-II (CRDP-II).
Also Read-Upcoming Mega Projects in Kerala
Land Acquisition and Project Progress Details:
Land acquisition for the project commenced in December 2022, with a total area of 348.09 hectares earmarked for the project. Construction work is expected to commence in August 2023, once land acquisition is completed. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) was prepared by the Kerala Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organisation (KITCO) and submitted to NHAI in September 2022.
Benefits and Connectivity:
The Thiruvananthapuram ORR will connect 31 villages, including Navaikulam, Kilimanoor, Thekkada, Ozhukupara, Vembayam, Mangalapuram, Pothencode, Nedumangad, Aruvikkara, Cheriyakonni, Chowalloor, Vilappilsala, Maranalloor, Ooruttambalam, Madavoorpara, Chavadinada, Venganoor, Kalluvettankuzhi, and Vizhinjam. It aims to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, and promote economic development in the region.
Route Map of Thiruvananthapuram Outer Ring Road:
Interactive map of Thiruvananthapuram Outer Ring Road
Tenders and Contractors:
NHAI initiated the tender process for the construction works of the Thiruvananthapuram Outer Ring Road in February 2023. The project is divided into two packages:
Package 1: Navaikulam to Thekkada (29.25 km)
Package 2: Thekkada to Vizhinjam (33.40 km)
The bidding process for both packages is currently underway. Further details regarding Package 3 are awaited.
| Package and Chainage | Status |
| Pkg 1 (29.25 km): Navaikulam to Thekkada (Ch- 0+450 to Ch-28+800) | Bidding is Underway |
| Pkg 2 (33.40 km): Thekkada to Vizhinjam (Ch-28+800 to Ch-62+200) | Bidding is Underway |
| Pkg 3: Details still Awaited | N/A |
The Thiruvananthapuram Outer Ring Road project is a significant infrastructure development aimed at improving connectivity and fostering economic growth in Kerala. Stay updated with the project’s progress, as it will enhance transportation efficiency and connectivity in Thiruvananthapuram and its surrounding areas.