A protest march led by Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) Madayi block committee against Megha Constructions, the contractor entrusted with the construction of the six-lane National Highway 66, turned violent on Thursday (May 22, 2025) morning.
Accusing the contractor of unscientific practices and irregularities in the construction of the highway, the activists reportedly stormed the office of the company at Vilayankode, Pariyaram, around 10 a.m.
The protesters allegedly damaged windows, computers, and other equipment after forcibly entering the office. Although the Pariyaram police arrived at the scene, they were unable to control the mob.
The protest comes amid widespread public anger over the recent construction-related incidents. In Pilathara town, the collapse of a boundary wall along the highway raised safety concerns among residents. Earlier this week, an earthen wall at the NH construction site at Kuppam, Taliparamba, gave way, sending muddy water into nearby homes.
In response, residents blocked the road on Wednesday (May 21. 2025). The blocakade was temporarily lifted following discussions with the Revenue Divisional Officer. But the residents warned of resuming the strike on May 27 if no action was taken.
‘Flaws in DPR’
Meanwhile, independent engineer representing the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) Manoj Kumar, who visited CH Colony and Kuppam, admitted that there were flaws in the detailed project report, and that it would be rectified.
“There are several flaws in the DPR, which include defaults in acquiring land, where to propose the culverts, and where to propose space for underpass,” he pointed out.
To mitigate further damage in CH Colony, Mr. Kumar said work on the construction of a culvert to temporarily divert water flowing from the upper side towards the residential area had begun.
“The water will be channeled and diverted from the catchment area to the Kuppam river by constructing a culvert on the upper side. This will prevent further flooding of the residential areas,” he explained.
Published – May 22, 2025 09:20 pm IST
