KOCHI: It looks like the authorities concerned have to overcome many hurdles before pulling down the North overbridge. Though steps have been initiated to dismantle the bridge, the uncertainties over it are still hovering. The Kerala Chamber of Commerce and Kerala Merchants Union want the authorities concerned to seriously intervene into traffic diversion and rehabilitation of the evictees.“Most of the projects undertaken in the city have not been completed on time. We are also apprehensive of the proposed traffic diversion,” said Savio Mathew, secretary, Kerala Chamber of Commerce.“It was earlier decided that the demolition would take place only after widening of Thammanam-Pullepady Road and approach road to MG Road from Pullepady. The ROB at Salim Rajan Road and a flyover linking KSRTC stand and Kadavanthra were to be completed on a war footing. But it was conveniently forgotten and the Kochi Corporation gave a nod for the demolition without meeting these promises,” he said.It has raised serious concern over traffic-related issues. As this bridge is the main connectivity to the city, its dismantling should take place only after alternative routes are in place. The suggested traffic regulation would only add to the woes of the commuters. The demolition work should not commence unless the alternate routes are strengthened,” he said.Kerala Merchants Union also expressed concern on this sudden turn of events. “We are not against any sort of development. But we have our worries, if the authorities concerned proceed without making any necessary arrangements,” said former president, K M John, Kerala Merchants Union.“ Those who would be evicted have to be rehabilitated. We have sent a proposal to allot the land under Kochi Corporation and Excise department in Kacheripady to evictees. We have also got a favourable response in this regard from the Chief Minister.
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