The much-anticipated Outer Ring Road (ORR) project in Kerala’s capital is set to progress, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) preparing to issue a 3(a) notification for the acquisition of approximately 314.209 hectares of land. Official sources indicate the notification will be issued within days, marking a key step in advancing the project. Under the revised plan approved by the central government, the ORR will include two trumpet interchanges at its endpoints in Vizhinjam and Navaikulam. These interchanges aim to ease congestion and ensure smooth traffic flow, particularly at junctions linked to National Highways and major roads. The ORR will also feature 14 strategically placed entry and exit points to enhance connectivity and reduce accidents. “The widened entry and exit points will ensure vehicles can merge with or leave traffic seamlessly, minimising disruptions,” said an NHAI official. Additional land will be acquired in Vizhinjam and Navaikulam to accommodate the trumpet interchanges. Once the 3(a) notification is issued, a 21-day period will allow for objections, followed by hearings and surveys to finalise the affected areas. A 3D notification will then be issued to complete the land acquisition process. The ORR is part of the Capital Region Development Programme II (CRDP) and is crucial for facilitating smoother transportation to the upcoming Vizhinjam port. The state government has allocated Rs 16.29 billion for the project. Meanwhile, families impacted by the ORR project have announced a protest march and dharna at the Public Works Department (PWD) minister’s residence. They are demanding fair replacement value for their properties and the immediate disbursal of compensation. (New Indian Express)