Thu Sep 11 09:08:07 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article rewrite:

**Summary:**

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan chaired a high-level meeting directing the NHAI to accelerate national highway construction in the state, while ensuring technical standards are maintained. The CM expressed concern over slow progress in certain areas and urged strict action against contractors causing delays. Specific issues like the need for an underpass in Nadal (Kannur) were highlighted. The meeting reviewed progress across 17 stretches (642 km total) with projected completion dates. Ministers and officials attended the meeting.

**News Article:**

**Kerala CM Urges NHAI to Expedite Highway Construction, Address Delays**

**THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, September 11, 2025** – Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has called on the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) to accelerate the completion of national highway projects throughout the state. During a high-level review meeting held in Thiruvananthapuram today, the Chief Minister expressed concern over the slow pace of progress in several key areas, including Vadakara (Kozhikode), Thuravur (Alappuzha), and Thiruvananthapuram.

“While the NHAI is generally doing commendable work in Kerala, we are seeing unacceptable delays in specific regions,” stated Chief Minister Vijayan. He urged the NHAI to take strong action against contractors failing to meet deadlines.

A specific point of contention raised during the meeting was the urgent need for an underpass in Nadal, Kannur district. Local residents and bus operators have been protesting the current situation, which forces buses to take a lengthy detour to cross the road. The Chief Minister emphasized that this situation requires immediate attention and should be treated as a special case.

The meeting included a review of the overall progress of 642 kilometers of road construction across 17 stretches. Current projections estimate that 480 kilometers will be completed by December 2025, with a total of 560 kilometers finished by March 2026. Completion rates vary significantly by district, with Kasaragod leading the way, and some districts lagging significantly.

Chief Minister Vijayan also stressed the importance of considering Kerala’s unique topography and population density during construction. He directed relevant agencies to address and resolve any issues that may hinder progress, with District Collectors and police chiefs taking a proactive role in facilitating discussions.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Minister for Public Works P.A. Mohamed Riyas, Industries Minister P. Rajeeve, Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty, and NHAI Regional Officer Colonel A. K. Janbaz. The push for accelerated highway construction comes as the state aims to improve connectivity and infrastructure, boosting economic growth and easing transportation challenges for residents.

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