How the Kuthiran Tunnel is Transforming Connectivity Between Thrissur and Palakkad
Kuthiran Tunnel is Kerala’s first road tunnel, located on the Thrissur–Palakkad stretch of National Highway 544 (NH 544). It is a twin-tube, six-lane tunnel managed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The tunnel passes through the Kuthiran Hills, which are part of the Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary.
Major Features
Length: Approximately 1 kilometer (Thrissur side: 955 meters; Palakkad side: 944 meters)
Opened: First tube opened in July 2021, second tube in January 2022
Importance: Significantly reduces travel time and traffic congestion between Thrissur and Palakkad, bypassing the previously dangerous and accident-prone hilly stretch.
Safety: Equipped with CCTV surveillance and modern safety systems.
Construction & Specifications
The Kuthiran Tunnel features a width of 14 meters and a height of 10 meters, designed to accommodate smooth and safe traffic flow. It consists of two parallel tunnels, known as twin tunnels, which are separated by approximately 20 meters. The construction of the tunnel faced several challenges, including the rocky terrain of the region, restrictions imposed due to its location within a wildlife sanctuary, and frequent landslides during the monsoon season, all of which caused delays. Currently, the tunnel remains operational but may occasionally be partially closed for maintenance work or safety upgrades to ensure continued secure passage for travelers.
Location
Coordinates: 10°34′17″N 76°22′52″E
Route: Connects Vadakkencherry in Thrissur district to Mannuthy in Palakkad district
Additional Highlights
The Kuthiran Tunnel has drastically reduced travel time on the Kochi–Coimbatore route, making journeys faster and more efficient. Since the tunnel passes through a wildlife sanctuary, special environmental permissions and precautions were necessary during its construction to minimize ecological impact.
Overall, the Kuthiran Tunnel stands as a major milestone in Kerala’s road infrastructure, significantly enhancing both safety and convenience for travelers on this busy highway.
