Two New Bridges Open Direct Coastal Route to Koyilandy Harbour

Two bridges spanning the Cheriyathodu and Koothavallythodu canals have been finished, completing the coastal road that links Kollam Angadi with Koyilandy harbour. The bridges cost ₹1.16 crore and were built with funds from the Harbour Engineering department under the supervision of the Harbour Engineering Sub‑Division Office in Koyilandy. A concrete carriageway was laid to protect the road from sea erosion and tidal ingress. The new road lets fisherfolk from Kollam, Arayankavu and Gurukulam beach reach Koyilandy harbour without using the national highway. It also gives small vehicles an alternative when traffic between Kollam and Koyilandy is disrupted. The route runs from Kollam beach road through Kollam beach, Arayankavu, Koothavally, Gurukulam beach, Valiyakath Palli and Mayan beach before ending at the harbour. From the harbour, motorists can continue along the coast toward Kappad and Kattilapeedika, although the stretch beyond the harbour is not yet fully motorable. The section between the harbour and Ezhukudikkal has been renovated, but the road from Ezhukudikkal to Kappad remains in poor condition because of sea erosion. The project is part of the state government’s plan to upgrade coastal roads.

Context

Coastal roads in Kerala often suffer damage from tides and erosion, so concrete surfacing helps keep them usable. Better harbour access supports local fishing communities and can reduce travel time compared to the inland highway.