Six-laning works on NH 66 in Kerala enter final phase, 492 km opened for traffic, says Minister

The construction of National Highway (NH) 66 in Kerala, which is currently being carried out under the supervision of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), is entering its final phase, Minister for Public Works P.A. Mohamed Riyas has said. 

A total of 492.64 km has been widened into six lanes and opened for traffic. Replying to a submission in the Assembly on Thursday (February 5, 2026), the Minister said some defects had occurred recently at some places during the construction work. Following this, the Chief Minister himself had requested the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways to ensure that the national-highway work in the State was completed on time, ensuring quality and safety. Based on this, an expert committee inspected the stretches and suggested some changes in some areas. On December 5, 2025, when the construction defect was noticed in the Mylakkadu (Kottiyam) area of ​​the Kollam-Kadampattukonam NH-66 section, the State brought the issue to the attention of the Centre, demanding that there should be no compromise on the quality and safety of the work. Following this, the NHAI has informed that 10 agencies have been appointed to conduct expert inspections on 17 stretches (completed and in progress) of the national highway 66 being developed in the State. The NHAI also informed that a Comprehensive Geotechnical Study Programme has also been initiated under the aegis of these agencies to conduct lab tests, including soil testing of all structures with the Reinforced Soil (RS) Wall.

After jointly examining the findings of the expert committee, the geotechnical study reports, and social considerations, the NHAI has informed that the design and construction of each Reinforced Soil (RS) Wall will be reviewed, and strengthening, redesigning, demolishing, and construction of viaducts will be considered in areas where they are necessary. The State government will also take necessary intervention to ensure the quality and safety of the road, the Minister said.