'The project had then envisaged a road width of 100 metres, which for Kerala, where land is a scarce commodity, was an unsound proposal. In the new proposal, we have decided that the width should not exceed 60 metres,' said Joseph.

The expressway will have four lanes where toll will be charged, and a two-lane service road that will be toll-free.

The feasibility study will be completed in six months, following which an all-party meeting will be convened to seek political consensus on the project.

The 600-km highway will be a private-public initiative.