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The construction of the 25-km Edappally-Moothakunnam stretch of NH-66 near Kochi is expected to gain momentum by October. A meeting of National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials, Ernakulam MLA T J Vinod, and Cheranalloor panchayat officials was held last week to discuss issues related to NH development on the stretch. At the meeting, NHAI officials informed that a flyover at Signal Junction and five underpasses in Cheranalloor will be constructed as part of the project.. “Along with the highway, a six-lane flyover, 7-m-wide service roads, and drainage will be constructed. The NHAI has set a 30-month deadline to complete the project. The national highway will be constructed as per norms,� said Vinod.. “As part of land acquisition, the government has spent over Rs 15 billion on compensation and rehabilitation,� he said. “Almost 60% of land acquisition procedures have been completed and the demolition work is in progress. NHAI officials will visit the project site in October-November and the work is expected to begin soon,� the MLA said.. The uncertainty in the construction of a new highway has led to several protests from residents of the area over the years. Initially, it was proposed to build a cloverleaf flyover here. But the move failed as the residents opposed it as the project needed more land. The agitation has now come to an end with the new plan.