State Highway 44 (Kerala)
State Highway 44 (SH 44), also known as the Theni-Munnar State Highway, is a state highway in Kerala, India. It connects Theni in Tamil Nadu to Munnar in Kerala, traversing a significant portion of the Western Ghats.
Route:
The highway begins at Theni in Tamil Nadu. It enters Kerala through the Bodimettu pass and proceeds through Poopara, Rajakkad, and finishes in Munnar.
Significance:
SH 44 is a crucial road link for the transportation of goods and people between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It serves as a vital route for the tourism industry in Munnar, connecting it to the plains of Tamil Nadu. The highway offers scenic views of the Western Ghats, tea plantations, and spice gardens, making it a popular route for travelers. It also facilitates the movement of agricultural produce, particularly spices and tea, from the region to markets in both states.
Maintenance:
The maintenance and upkeep of the Kerala section of SH 44 are the responsibility of the Kerala Public Works Department (PWD).