Quoting preliminary observations of experts from IITs, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has informed the Kerala High Court that the collapse of an under-construction stretch of NH 66 at Kooriyad in Malappuram was likely due to extensive waterlogging on the left-hand side of the road, and that experts from the IITs will submit a report after conducting a detailed investigation into the incident.
NHAI’s counsel made the submission in response to a query from the court which was considering a batch of petitions concerning the deteriorating condition of roads across the State.
The court sought a timeline for completing the NH 66 stretch across Kerala, expressing concern over the continued hardships faced by citizens due to the poor condition of national highways.
Counsel informed the court that although work at the Kooriyad stretch had been halted following the incident, construction was on at other NH 66 corridors.
The NHAI was in the process of examining problematic areas, acknowledging that while some issues were unexpected, others arose from Kerala’s unique terrain, he said and sought three weeks’ time to furnish a comprehensive response.
The court adjourned the petitions for further consideration.
Published – June 12, 2025 09:01 pm IST
