Sun Oct 05 13:40:04 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has completed the six-laning of a crucial 39-km stretch of NH-66 between Talapady and Chengala in Kerala. This milestone includes multiple bridges, underpasses, and South India’s first single-pillar flyover. The project aims to improve connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance road safety. While the overall project from Talapady to Muzhappilangad faces an extended deadline of June 2026, significant progress has been made on other sections as well.
**News Article:**
**Kerala Highway Upgrade: NHAI Opens Six-Lane Talapady-Chengala Stretch, Promises Boost to Connectivity**
*KASARAGOD, October 5, 2025* – The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) announced today the completion of the six-laning of the Talapady-Chengala section of National Highway 66 (NH-66) in Kerala, marking a significant step forward in the state’s infrastructure development. The 39-kilometer stretch, executed by the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society Limited, is now open to traffic.
“This marks a major milestone in improving connectivity along Kerala’s coastal corridor,” said Jaspreet, Deputy Manager, NHAI. “The upgraded highway, complete with service roads, will significantly ease traffic congestion and enhance road safety for commuters.”
The project includes the construction of four major bridges, four minor bridges, nine vehicle underpasses, one light vehicle underpass, three foot overbridges, and 81 cross-drainage box culverts. Notably, the stretch also boasts South India’s first 1.16-km single-pillar flyover, a modern engineering feat.
Furthermore, the NHAI has implemented an Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) along 35 km of the route. This incorporates CCTV cameras, speed cameras, variable message signs, and a central command center to optimize traffic flow and provide real-time information to drivers.
The broader project, spanning 146.3 km from Talapady to Muzhappilangad, began in late 2021 and is now expected to be fully completed by June 2026, a slight extension from the original May 2025 deadline. NHAI cited continuous monsoon rains and the project’s labour-intensive nature as contributing factors to the delay.
According to NHAI, work on other sections, including Chengala to Nileswaram, Nileswaram to Taliparamba, and Taliparamba to Muzhappilangad, is progressing rapidly, with 80% and 75% completion rates respectively.
“The completion of this project will significantly improve regional connectivity in north Kerala, reduce travel time, and boost socio-economic growth by facilitating safer and smoother movement of commuters, trade, and logistics,” added Jaspreet.
The project is being implemented under the Hybrid Annuity Model, and the concessionaire will maintain and operate the highway for the next 15 years. The new highway promises to transform the travel experience for commuters and businesses alike in the region.
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