Intro: The Kerala Chief Minister warned his Tamil Nadu counterpart that transport restrictions threaten NH construction and key infra projects.
Thiruvananthapuram
Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan has urged Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay to personally intervene in easing restrictions on the interstate transportation of stone aggregates, warning that the move is affecting the timely execution of National Highway projects in Kerala.
In a letter addressed to Vijay on Tuesday, Satheesan highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two neighbouring states, built on geographical proximity, cultural ties and cooperative federalism. He said both governments have consistently worked together to promote regional development and public welfare.
The Kerala Chief Minister pointed out that Tamil Nadu’s Gazette Notification No. 306, issued on July 9, 2026, introduced new regulations governing the interstate movement of rough stones and construction materials. As a result, the supply of stone aggregates from Tirunelveli, Tenkasi and Kanniyakumari districts to Kerala has been significantly disrupted.
Satheesan explained that Kerala has limited availability of quality stone aggregates required for large-scale infrastructure projects and therefore depends heavily on supplies from these neighbouring Tamil Nadu districts. The restrictions, he said, have interrupted construction activities and created the risk of delays in several strategically important National Highway projects.
He further noted that these projects would improve regional connectivity, boost logistics, facilitate trade and tourism, and strengthen access to key economic centres in both states. They are also expected to enhance connectivity to the Vizhinjam International Seaport and Vallarpadam International Container Transshipment Terminal.
While acknowledging Tamil Nadu’s objective of ensuring sustainable management of natural resources, Satheesan requested suitable relaxations or a special mechanism that would allow uninterrupted transportation of construction materials exclusively for nationally significant infrastructure projects in Kerala.
BOX
Kerala reaches out to TN
- Kerala CM writes to Tamil Nadu CM Joseph Vijay.
- Stone transport restrictions affecting National Highway works.
- Kerala depends on Tamil Nadu for construction aggregates.
- Delays feared in strategically important infrastructure projects.
- CM seeks relaxation for nationally significant projects.