In a major boost to connectivity for Edamalakkudy, the State’s first tribal panchayat near Munnar in Idukki, the Forest department and the Tribal Development department have signed an agreement to construct a second stretch of the road connecting Edaliparakkudy to Societykudy, the panchayat’s base camp.

The Forest department has green-lighted another road connecting Koodallarkudy to Anakkulam, further improving access to the tribal panchayat. According to sources, these developments follow a recent meeting in Idukki led by K.A. Thulasi, the Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Classes, who directed authorities to expedite road projects in the area.

In 2022, the Tribal department allocated ₹13.70 crore for the 7.2-km stretch from Pettimudy to Edaliparakudy, alongside ₹4.75 crore for the 3-km stretch between Edaliparakudy and Societykudy.

PWD to construct road

However, a 1.35-km portion of the first stretch remains incomplete. The Minister recently instructed Public Works Department (PWD) officials to finish the remaining construction within 45 days.

Tribal department officials said that the PWD has been tasked with the second phase (Edaliparakudy to Societykudy) road.

“The PWD required a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Munnar Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), permission to transport construction materials through KDHP-owned land, and a formal agreement with the Forest department. All required documents have now been submitted to the PWD,” an official said.

However, sources revealed that the PWD is requesting a revised cost estimate for the second stretch. “The government will take a final decision on the estimate issue,” the official added.

Meanwhile, another motorable road linking Koodallarkudy — a tribal settlement in Edamalakkudy — to Anakkulam near Mankulam is nearing completion. Officials said local community members have submitted applications for road construction under the Forest Rights Act (FRA).

Munnar Range Officer S. Biju confirmed that local residents submitted 12 applications requesting sanction for a total of six km.

“Each application covers a 500-metre segment. We have cleared three applications and forwarded them to the DFO for final approval. The remaining nine applications were returned to the applicants to re-submit with proper documentation. Once received, the Forest department will grant permission for construction,” Mr. Biju said. He added that all necessary forest clearances for the Pettimudy–Societykudy route have already been granted.

Edamalakkudy panchayat President Binu M. said fresh applications for the Koodallarkudy–Anakkulam road will be submitted soon.

“Once we receive permission, construction will begin. Upon completion, residents will have direct and easy access to Mankulam,” the president said.

Published - July 23, 2026 07:24 pm IST