Sun Jul 06 11:10:18 UTC 2025: ## Summary of the Text:
The provided text is a news article from The Hindu, dated July 6, 2025, reporting on the progress of a bridge construction project in Alappuzha, Kerala, India. The bridge, connecting Nehru Trophy Ward to Punnamada, is costing ₹57.12 crore. Construction is underway with significant progress made on the piles, pile caps, and piers. The bridge promises to end the travel woes of residents, particularly those relying on boats for essential needs. The design incorporates features to avoid disrupting water transport on Punnamada Lake. It is also expected to boost tourism and alleviate traffic congestion in Alappuzha town by connecting to the proposed Pallathuruthy East bypass road. The project, initially conceived in 2019, faced delays but is now being built by the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society.
## News Article:
**Alappuzha Bridge Construction Advances, Promising Relief and Boosting Tourism**
**Alappuzha, July 6, 2025 (The Hindu) -** Construction of the much-anticipated bridge connecting Nehru Trophy Ward in Alappuzha municipality to Punnamada is progressing steadily. The ₹57.12 crore project is poised to alleviate the travel difficulties of hundreds of families and enhance the region’s tourism prospects.
Officials confirmed significant headway has been made, with 34 piles, nine pile caps, and 14 piers already completed. Once finished, the bridge will provide a vital link for residents of Nehru Trophy Ward and Naduthuruth in Kainakary grama panchayat, who currently rely on boats for essential travel, including accessing healthcare, education, and employment.
“This bridge reflects the government’s commitment to the people,” stated MLA P.P. Chitharanjan. “It will ensure hassle-free travel for 600 families who are presently forced to depend on country boats.”
The 384.1-meter-long bridge is designed with 25 spans and a 72.05-meter-long bowstring arch span, allowing for uninterrupted water transport on Punnamada Lake, a national waterway renowned for its houseboat operations. In addition, it includes 110-meter-long approach roads.
The project is also part of a larger plan to ease traffic congestion in Alappuzha town. The bridge is slated to connect to the proposed Pallathuruthy East bypass road, providing direct access to the Alappuzha-Changanassery road from the Thanneermukkom–Alappuzha road, bypassing the town center.
Conceived by former Finance Minister T.M. Thomas Isaac in 2019, the project faced initial delays due to alignment changes and land acquisition issues. Construction is now being carried out by the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society. The bridge is expected to be a significant boon for tourism and residents alike.
First Piper 