Kochi: Commuters, especially those proceeding to Kochi airport, must brace for delays as major traffic diversions take effect for 10 days, from Wednesday to Nov 6. National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is closing the historic Old Marthanda Varma Bridge for structural repairs.
Passengers heading toward the airport are advised to start their journeys earlier than usual to avoid missing flights due to the possible bottleneck at Aluva. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kochi | Silver Rate in Kochi | Bank Holidays in Kochi | Public Holidays in Kochi Stay updated with the latest Kochi news. Kochi airport and traffic authorities have issued an urgent travel advisory. Commuters are encouraged to use public transport wherever possible during this period. Download the TOI App.
Restrictions will also be enforced on the adjoining Desom Bridge and the new Marthanda Varma Bridge. The maintenance follows expert evaluations by structural engineers from IIT Madras. Built in the 1940s, the Old Marthanda Varma Bridge exhibits significant structural wear and fatigue from decades of heavy usage. Immediate repairs are required to service expansion joints and reinforce span structures to prevent safety risks. The New Marthanda Varma Bridge will handle vehicles travelling in both directions, but movement is restricted to a single lane each way. Heavy vehicles from Thrissur to Ernakulam will be diverted via Irinjalakuda, Kodungallur, Paravur, and Cheranalloor Signal Road. Heavy vehicles from Thrissur to Aluva will be diverted at Angamaly toward Kalady and Perumbavoor. Buses coming from Angamaly and Paravur are banned from turning toward Manappuram at Paravur Junction and must remain on the highway route.