CM Satheesan seeks Vijay's intervention over regulation of construction material to Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, July 28
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Tuesday wrote to his counterpart in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, CM Joseph Vijay, pointing out that Kerala and Tamil Nadu have always shared a unique and enduring relationship founded on geographical proximity, cultural affinity and a long tradition of mutual cooperation.
"Our two governments have consistently worked together in a spirit of cooperative federalism to promote the welfare and economic development of our people. I am writing to seek your personal intervention in an issue of considerable importance affecting the timely implementation of National Highway projects in Kerala," he said.
"I understand that the Government of Tamil Nadu, vide Gazette Notification No. 306 dated 09.07.2026, has introduced provisions regulating the inter-State transportation of rough stones and other construction materials. Consequently, the movement of stone aggregates from the districts of Tirunelveli, Tenkasi and Kanniyakumari to Kerala has been significantly affected. These districts have traditionally been the principal source of stone aggregates required for the execution of several National Highway projects in Kerala," stated the Kerala CM.
"As you are aware, Kerala has limited availability of suitable stone aggregates for large-scale infrastructure works. A substantial quantity of the materials required for the ongoing National Highway projects is therefore sourced from neighbouring districts of Tamil Nadu. The restrictions on inter-State transportation have adversely impacted the supply chain, disrupted construction activities and pose a serious risk of delay in the completion of several strategically important projects," he said.
Satheesan goes on to add that these National Highway projects are of immense significance not only to Kerala but to the southern region as a whole.
"They are expected to strengthen regional connectivity, improve logistics efficiency, facilitate trade and tourism, and enhance access to important economic hubs in both our States. They will also provide seamless connectivity to the Vizhinjam International Seaport and the International Container Transshipment Terminal at Vallarpadam, thereby contributing significantly to the economic growth and competitiveness of southern India," added Satheesan.
"I fully appreciate the objectives behind your Government's policy and the need to ensure sustainable management of natural resources. At the same time, I am confident that a balanced approach can be evolved whereby the legitimate requirements of nationally important infrastructure projects are accommodated without compromising the policy objectives of the Government of Tamil Nadu," the Kerala CM said in his letter.
Satheesan requested Vijay's intervention to consider granting suitable relaxation or evolving an appropriate mechanism to facilitate the uninterrupted transportation of stone aggregates required exclusively for the ongoing National Highway and other nationally significant infrastructure projects in Kerala.
"Such a measure would greatly assist in ensuring the timely completion of these projects and would further reinforce the spirit of cooperation that has always characterised the relationship between our two States," said Satheesan.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Honestly, I see both sides here. Tamil Nadu needs to regulate its resources too - those quarries cause environmental damage. But blocking essential construction material for national projects is a bit extreme. Maybe they can create a special permit system for NH projects? That would be a win-win.
Classic Kerala government! Always dependent on others for everything. Why can't we develop our own stone quarries? We have mountains everywhere! Instead of writing letters, they should start local mining operations. But no, it's easier to blame TN for everything. 🙄
As someone from Kanyakumari, I can tell you the truck movement through our towns is insane. Those huge lorries create traffic jams and damage our roads. But I also understand Kerala's situation. Hope both CMs find a middle path - maybe designate specific routes or timings for the transport.
This is what cooperative federalism looks like! Instead of going to court, the CM wrote a respectful letter. Vijay should respond positively - after all, we're talking about national highway projects that will benefit both states economically. Vizhinjam port project is a game-changer for the entire region. Let's not create unnecessary hurdles. 🚧
Interesting how this plays out! In the US, states often negotiate over resources too. But the difference is they have federal mechanisms to resolve this. India's cooperative federalism needs stronger institutional frameworks - not just letters between CMs. But hey, at least they're talking! 🤷♂️
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