Kottayam, May 22 (UNI) Kerala P W D Minister P J Joseph today said a new North-South highway would be constructed as part of the Road Network Development in the state.

Speaking at a meet-the-press programme here, he said instead of the controversial Express Highway, a new North South highway would be constructed after consulting experts.

Denying there would be additional burden on the people, he said detailed political and government level discussions would precede the final decision.

The Minister emphasised the need for a road network in the state, particularly in Kochi, to cope with traffic congestion in the wake of construction work at the Container Terminal.

He said steps would be taken to resolve the drinking water shortage in the district, particularly Kumarakom.

He alleged the previous UDF Government had not used Rs 577 crore out of Rs 1650 crore sanctioned for development of strategically important roads. Effective steps were not taken to acquire the land for the roads, he added.

Claiming this government would complete the land acquisition in 100 days, he warned that action would be taken against violators of the Highway Act.

UNI VST JJ AK DB1852