Sat Sep 27 19:03:51 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article rewrite:
**Summary:**
The Kerala state government has approved funding and is moving forward with the second phase of the Seaport-Airport Road project in Kochi. This includes the construction of a new stretch between HMT and NAD. Tender processes are being expedited, land acquisition is nearing completion, and funding has been allocated for various segments of the project including the NAD-Mahilalayam stretch. Delays are expected to be minimal for parts of the project with existing sketches.
**News Article:**
**Kochi’s Seaport-Airport Road Phase Two Gains Momentum with ₹17.31 Crore HMT-NAD Stretch Approval**
**KOCHI, September 28, 2025** – The long-awaited second phase of the Seaport-Airport Road project in Kochi is gaining traction, with the Kerala state government granting administrative sanction for the construction of the HMT-NAD stretch at a cost of ₹17.31 crore.
Industries Minister P. Rajeeve convened a review meeting confirming the commitment to expedite the project. Tender formalities will begin immediately after receiving technical sanction. The new road segment will span 600 meters in length and boast a width of 45 meters at the HMT location. The land cost has already been paid, fulfilling a Supreme Court directive.
The Revenue department is currently finalizing land handover procedures, including measurements within HMT’s 215-hectare area. Concurrently, efforts are being intensified to accelerate construction near NAD, with the government already allocating ₹32.26 crore for payments to NAD. Officials anticipate minimal delays in this area due to existing sketches.
Tenders for widening the NAD-Thorappu Road are also slated to be initiated soon. Furthermore, the tender for the NAD-Mahilalayam stretch, a 6.50 km segment, is expected to be issued in December, with land acquisition nearing completion. The Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) has already allocated ₹569.34 crores for land acquisition on the NAD-Mahilalayam stretch.
The Seaport-Airport Road project is a crucial infrastructure development expected to significantly improve connectivity and alleviate traffic congestion in Kochi.