Althara-Chenthitta road: KRFB invites tenders
ROADS & HIGHWAYS

Althara-Chenthitta road: KRFB invites tenders

The development of the first stretch of what is slated to be the longest smart road in the capital city, as part of the Smart City Mission project, faces potential delays due to a lack of bidders. The project, spanning from Althara near Vellayambalam to Chenthitta near Killipalam via Vazhuthacaud and Thycaud, failed to attract bidders even after the Kerala Road Fund Board (KRFB), the project's executing agency, initiated e-tender processes five times.

The most recent e-tender, issued last month, received no participation during the opening process held last week. Consequently, the KRFB has initiated a sixth tender and established a new deadline, which is set for October 7. In an effort to encourage bidder participation, the agency has structured the tender as a 'composite tender,' combining both construction and electrical works. The tender is scheduled to open on October 9.

Sources have revealed that contractors have now expressed interest in the project, primarily due to a change in the original plan from constructing a concrete road to a black-topped road, conforming to Indian Road Congress standards. The project entails the use of BM (Bituminous Macadam) and BC (Bituminous Concrete) tarring methods.

The proposed 4.2-kilometer road stands as the longest planned smart road in the city, to be constructed in two segments: a 3-kilometer section from Althara to Chenthitta, and a 1.2-kilometer stretch from Killipalam to Attakulangara. Initially scheduled for completion in June 2023, the project faced delays that prompted the cancellation of the contract by KRFB. The new deadline for project completion has been extended to June 2024.

The development of the first stretch of what is slated to be the longest smart road in the capital city, as part of the Smart City Mission project, faces potential delays due to a lack of bidders. The project, spanning from Althara near Vellayambalam to Chenthitta near Killipalam via Vazhuthacaud and Thycaud, failed to attract bidders even after the Kerala Road Fund Board (KRFB), the project's executing agency, initiated e-tender processes five times. The most recent e-tender, issued last month, received no participation during the opening process held last week. Consequently, the KRFB has initiated a sixth tender and established a new deadline, which is set for October 7. In an effort to encourage bidder participation, the agency has structured the tender as a 'composite tender,' combining both construction and electrical works. The tender is scheduled to open on October 9. Sources have revealed that contractors have now expressed interest in the project, primarily due to a change in the original plan from constructing a concrete road to a black-topped road, conforming to Indian Road Congress standards. The project entails the use of BM (Bituminous Macadam) and BC (Bituminous Concrete) tarring methods. The proposed 4.2-kilometer road stands as the longest planned smart road in the city, to be constructed in two segments: a 3-kilometer section from Althara to Chenthitta, and a 1.2-kilometer stretch from Killipalam to Attakulangara. Initially scheduled for completion in June 2023, the project faced delays that prompted the cancellation of the contract by KRFB. The new deadline for project completion has been extended to June 2024.

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Arya Omnitalk Powers India’s Toll Revolution with AI-Driven Solutions

Arya Omnitalk, a leader in intelligent transportation systems, is revolutionising toll collection across India’s national highways with its advanced AI-powered Toll Management Solutions. Designed for rugged remote toll locations, the company’s cutting-edge technology ensures seamless, reliable, and secure tolling—especially during high-capacity operations exceeding 200%. By integrating real-time analytics, cyber protection, and FASTag-based cashless tolling, Arya Omnitalk’s systems are significantly reducing congestion, improving transparency, and enhancing revenue assurance. Its full..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

Over 800 Join Anant Raj Runathon to Mark Earth Day

Over 800 participants came together at Anant Raj Estate, Sector 63A, Gurugram, for the Anant Raj Runathon 2025—a vibrant celebration of Earth Day through fitness, community bonding, and sustainability. Curated by renowned running coach Ravinder, the event featured four categories: 10-mile and 5-mile timed runs, a 5-mile walkathon, and a 1-mile kids’ run. Runners of all ages took to the green, scenic roads of the area—some chasing personal bests, others running for a cause. The Runathon was designed to promote healthy living while raising awareness about sustainable practices. Participa..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

PETRONAS Lubricants, Quaker Houghton Ink Strategic Deal

In a significant step towards strengthening industrial operations in India and Malaysia, PETRONAS Lubricants India Pvt. Ltd (PLIPL) and Quaker Houghton have announced a strategic partnership aimed at delivering high-performance industrial fluid solutions to key manufacturing sectors, including steel production. The collaboration combines the strengths of both companies—leveraging PETRONAS Lubricants India’s maintenance lubricant technologies and Quaker Houghton’s deep expertise in metalworking fluids. Starting from the second quarter of 2025, Quaker Houghton will begin offering PETRONAS..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?