Mon Aug 18 11:04:32 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article rewrite:

**Summary:**

The Supreme Court of India is questioning the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) about the poor condition of National Highway 544 in Kerala, specifically the Edappally-Mannuthy stretch. A recent 12-hour traffic jam, caused by a truck overturning due to a pothole, has sparked debate. The court is considering whether commuters should be compensated for the time and fuel lost due to the poor road conditions and lengthy delays. The court is reviewing a Kerala High Court decision to suspend toll collection at the Paliyekkara toll booth due to the highway’s disrepair.

**News Article:**

**Supreme Court Questions NHAI Over Kerala Highway Delays, Considers Commuter Compensation**

**NEW DELHI, August 18, 2025** – The Supreme Court of India today grilled the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) regarding the severely deteriorated condition of National Highway 544 in Kerala, raising the possibility of compensation for commuters enduring extensive delays.

The inquiry was prompted by a massive 12-hour traffic snarl on the Ernakulam-Thrissur stretch during the weekend, caused by a truck overturning into a pothole on the poorly maintained road. A three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, along with Justices Vinod Chandran and N.V. Anjaria, questioned the NHAI’s responsibility to commuters.

Justice Chandran remarked that the incident, far from being an “Act of God,” was a direct consequence of the highway’s dilapidated state. “In fact, some payment has to be made by the NHAI to commuters for their patience and the fuel they lost in the traffic block,” he stated.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the NHAI, attributed the delays to the overturned truck and ongoing construction of underpasses, which have been hampered by the monsoon season. He also pointed to the availability of service roads.

However, the CJI questioned the fairness of expecting commuters to endure 12-hour traffic jams and still pay toll fees. The court is reviewing a Kerala High Court judgment that suspended toll collection at the Paliyekkara toll booth, challenged by Guruvayoor Infrastructure Ltd., the concessionaire.

The Supreme Court’s intervention highlights growing public frustration with the state of infrastructure and accountability of governing bodies. The case has significant implications for infrastructure projects and compensation rights for road users nationwide.

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