The Wayanad Tunnel Road Project promises improved connectivity between Kerala and Karnataka, but environmentalists warn of landslides, deforestation, and wildlife disruptions in ecologically sensitive areas.
The Kerala government’s State Environmental Appraisal Committee (SEAC) recently granted environmental clearance for the ambitious Wayanad Tunnel Road Project, which aims to significantly reduce travel time between Kerala and Karnataka. The project, spanning 8.75 kilometers, will provide an alternative to the Thamarasserry Ghat Road, easing connectivity between Meppadi in Wayanad and Anakkampoyil in Kozhikode.
However, the approval has sparked controversy due to the tunnel’s location in ecologically sensitive areas (ESA) prone to landslides, raising concerns about its long-term environmental impact.
What is the Wayanad Tunnel Road Project?
The Wayanad Tunnel Road Project is a Rs. 2043.74 crore infrastructure initiative by the Kerala government. It aims to construct a tunnel road connecting Wayanad and Kozhikode, offering a faster and safer route for commuters and goods transport. The project is expected to boost economic activity and tourism in the region.
Why is the Project Controversial?
The proposed tunnel passes through Vellarimala in Wayanad and Thiruvambady in Kozhikode, both classified as ecologically sensitive areas. Additionally, 5.76 km of the tunnel will cut through 17.263 hectares of forest land, posing risks to the region’s biodiversity.
Environmentalists argue that the area has already experienced massive landslides in 2019 and 2024, making it highly fragile. The SEAC itself acknowledged the high risk of landslides, soil erosion, and human-wildlife conflict due to forest encroachment. Despite these warnings, the clearance was granted with 25 conditions aimed at mitigating environmental damage.
Who Approved the Project and Under What Conditions?
The State Environmental Appraisal Committee (SEAC), led by R. Ajayakumar Varma, approved the project but imposed several stringent conditions:
- Micro-scale mapping of landslide-prone zones.
- Four ground vibration monitoring systems to track seismic activity.
- Automated weather stations for real-time environmental data.
- Regular environmental impact assessments every six months.
- Tunneling methods that minimize ground vibrations.
The Kerala government has appointed KITCO Ltd. as the project proponent, with Konkan Railway Corporation Limited overseeing the construction.
When Will the Project Begin?
While no official start date has been confirmed, the approval signals that the construction could commence soon, pending compliance with SEAC’s conditions.
How Will It Impact the Environment in the Long Run?
The Wayanad Tunnel Road Project may bring economic and infrastructural benefits, but its long-term environmental consequences could be severe:
- Landslide Risk – The region has a history of devastating landslides, and large-scale excavation could weaken the terrain further.
- Deforestation & Habitat Loss – Clearing forest land may disrupt wildlife corridors, increasing human-wildlife conflicts.
- Soil Erosion & Water Contamination – Tunnel excavation may lead to soil erosion, affecting nearby water bodies and agricultural lands.
- Climate Change Impact – Loss of green cover and increased vehicular emissions could worsen climate change effects in the region.
- Sustainability Challenges – Without strong environmental safeguards, the project could set a precedent for further encroachments into ecologically fragile zones.
While the Wayanad Tunnel Road Project promises improved connectivity and economic growth, it comes at a significant environmental cost. The SEAC’s conditional approval highlights the project’s high ecological risks. Moving forward, strict environmental monitoring and sustainable construction practices will be crucial in minimizing damage to Kerala’s delicate ecosystem.