![Alappuzha [Keralam], Oct 18 (ANI): Keralam Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan cuts the ribbon during the inauguration of the Makkekadavu–Nerekadavu bridge connecting Alappuzha and Kottayam districts, in Alappuzha on Sunday. Keralam Ministers P K Basheer and Mons Joseph, Deputy Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly Shanimol Usman and other dignitaries also present. (@vdsatheesan X/ANI Photo)](/cdn-cgi/image/onerror=redirect,width=640,height=640,format=webp/https://storage.googleapis.com/uploads.mongoosehq.com/url/media/190274557/72b1a56a2e6e4014b96043191c2ecc71bedcb4f74e51e57c39c1fd0a8920aa67)
Overview
- The Makkekadavu–Nere Kadavu bridge, which was inaugurated Sunday, Oct 18, connects Alappuzha and Kottayam across Vembanad Lake and measures about 800 metres long and 11 metres wide.
- Officials say the project cost approximately Rs 98.09 crore and includes 60‑metre approach roads on both sides as part of the second phase of the Thuravoor–Pampa road corridor.
- Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan led the ribbon‑cutting and ministers and MPs travelled the length of the bridge during the opening ceremony attended by PWD Minister P. K. Basheer and Deputy Speaker Shanimol Usman.
- The inauguration featured on‑site clashes over credit: P. K. Basheer said the Public Works Department directly built the bridge and criticized the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board, A. M. Ariff said construction finished under former PWD minister P. A. Mohammed Riyas, and former MLA C. K. Asha left in protest after being denied a speaking slot.
- State officials also used the event to announce related plans and safeguards, including a compensation package for land affected by road work and references to an expert committee report that raised questions about KIIFB’s role.