Kerala govt. order declares Neriamangalam-Valara route as revenue land
The Kerala government has officially declared the Neriamangalam–Valara route as revenue land, clearing legal hurdles for the Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway expansion. This decision follows a long-standing dispute between the Forest and Revenue departments that had stalled construction since 2025.
Why it matters
Resolving this land ownership dispute is essential for the completion of a vital infrastructure project that has been a major local political issue.
The Kerala government has issued an order declaring that the Neriamangalam–Valara route on the Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway is revenue land. The order, issued by Chief Secretary Bishwanath Sinha, stated that the decision was made after verifying all available records regarding ownership claims over the road.
Work on the vital stretch has been stalled since July 2025, after the Kerala High Court restricted road-widening and tree-felling. The stay followed a petition filed by Idukki-based environmentalist M.N. Jayachandran. The High Court subsequently directed the government to settle the ownership dispute of the road, prompting the current order.
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