The Kerala government has announced a major infrastructure push in the 2026–27 financial year with a significant allocation for roads, bridges, and highways. The State Budget has earmarked ₹1,182.43 crore for the Public Works Department, reflecting a continued focus on improving connectivity and transport efficiency.
Out of the total allocation, ₹1,091.15 crore will go towards roads and bridges, while ₹91.28 crore has been set aside for national highway projects. The government aims to reduce congestion, enhance road safety, and support economic growth by strengthening transport infrastructure across urban and rural regions.
Presenting the Budget in the Assembly on Thursday, Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal highlighted the progress achieved in recent years. He said the government has upgraded 898 kilometres of State highways into four-lane roads. In addition, authorities have widened 3,193 kilometres of State highways into two-lane corridors. These upgrades aim to improve travel speed and reduce bottlenecks on key routes.
The Budget also underlined strong emphasis on district-level road development. According to Balagopal, the government has developed 52 kilometres of district roads into four-lane stretches. It has also upgraded 10,953 kilometres of district roads into two-lane roads, improving last-mile connectivity for villages and small towns.
Officials believe that better road infrastructure will support tourism, trade, and emergency services. Improved connectivity also helps farmers, small businesses, and daily commuters by lowering travel costs and time. The government sees sustained public investment in roads as a foundation for long-term development.
With this allocation, Kerala continues to prioritise infrastructure-led growth. The focus on highways, bridges, and district roads signals an effort to balance urban expansion with rural development, while creating a more efficient and safer transport network across the State.
