THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has written to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, requesting a urgent reconsideration of the restrictions recently imposed on the interstate transportation of construction materials, particularly stone aggregates and metal. Satheesan highlighted that these curbs are threatening the progress of key infrastructure projects, including National Highway developments and connectivity corridors leading to the Vizhinjam International Seaport.
Impact on Infrastructure: Kerala relies heavily on border districts of Tamil Nadu—such as Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari—for high-grade stone aggregates and crushed metal. The restrictions imposed via Tamil Nadu’s recent notification have disrupted supply chains and brought major roadwork projects near a standstill.
Special Context of Kerala: Pointing out Kerala’s limited local availability of suitable stone aggregates for large-scale engineering works, the Chief Minister urged Tamil Nadu to grant specific relaxations or set up an alternative framework for ongoing national projects.
Regional Connectivity & Federal Cooperation: Satheesan emphasized that completing these projects on time is vital not just for Kerala, but for southern regional trade, logistics, and port connectivity. He expressed confidence that a balanced mechanism can protect natural resource management while permitting essential construction logistics.
The Kerala government hopes for a positive and speedy response from the Tamil Nadu leadership to ensure seamless interstate cooperation.
