Thu Feb 05 11:17:50 UTC 2026: ### Kerala’s National Highway 66 Construction Enters Final Phase Amid Quality Concerns

The Story:

The construction of the six-lane National Highway (NH) 66 in Kerala, supervised by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), is nearing completion, according to Public Works Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas. A total of 492.64 km has been widened and opened to traffic. However, recent construction defects, particularly in the Mylakkadu (Kottiyam) area, have prompted the state government to demand uncompromising quality and safety.

In response to these concerns, the NHAI has appointed 10 agencies to conduct expert inspections on 17 stretches of NH-66. A Comprehensive Geotechnical Study Programme, including soil testing of Reinforced Soil (RS) Walls, has also been initiated. The design and construction of each RS Wall will be reviewed, with potential redesigning, demolishing, or construction of viaducts where necessary. The State government has pledged to ensure the quality and safety of the road.

Key Points:

  • Construction of National Highway 66 in Kerala is in its final phase.
  • 492.64 km of the highway has been widened to six lanes and opened to traffic.
  • Construction defects were identified in the Mylakkadu (Kottiyam) area.
  • The state government has demanded stringent quality and safety standards.
  • NHAI has appointed 10 agencies to inspect 17 stretches of the highway.
  • A Comprehensive Geotechnical Study Programme has been initiated, focusing on Reinforced Soil (RS) Walls.
  • The design and construction of RS Walls will be reviewed, with potential modifications.

Key Takeaways:

  • While the NH-66 project is progressing, quality control remains a significant concern.
  • The Kerala government is actively monitoring the construction and demanding accountability from the NHAI.
  • Comprehensive investigations and potential redesigning of key structures highlight the seriousness of the identified defects.
  • The project’s completion timeline may be affected by the need for additional inspections and potential remedial work.
  • Public scrutiny and governmental oversight play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of large-scale infrastructure projects.

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