What Actions Did the Centre Take Regarding the Collapse of NH 66 in Kerala?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The recent collapse of sections of National Highway 66 in Kerala has prompted the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to take swift action against the involved construction company and consultants. With significant political implications, this incident raises questions about accountability and infrastructure safety in the region. Explore the unfolding developments surrounding this critical issue.
Key Takeaways
- Immediate action taken against KNR Constructions and consultants.
- Suspension of key project officials.
- Appointment of a renowned expert to investigate the collapse.
- Political pressure for accountability and safety in infrastructure.
- Protests highlighting public concern over road safety.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 22 (NationPress) The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has taken decisive measures against KNR Constructions Limited, based in Hyderabad, following incidents of collapse on the National Highway 66 in Kerala, which is currently under their construction.
According to reports, not only has the construction company been banned, but the consultants involved in the project, Highway Engineering Company, have also faced a similar ban.
Additionally, two senior officials associated with the project, Construction Project Manager M. Amarnath Reddy and team leader Raj Kumar, have been suspended from their duties.
On May 19, a section of the under-construction National Highway 66 at Kooriyad in Malappuram district experienced a collapse, leading to the sinking of the retaining wall and service road.
E.T. Mohammed Basheer, Lok Sabha member representing the Malappuram district, reached out to Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari earlier this week to voice concerns regarding the highway's construction. Gadkari assured Basheer that prompt action would be taken, which occurred on Thursday.
On Wednesday, Sunny Joseph, the president of the Kerala Congress, urged the Pinarayi Vijayan government to ensure accountability in this matter.
Meanwhile, protesters have directed their frustrations towards P.A. Mohammed Riyas, the State Public Works Department Minister and also the son-in-law of Vijayan. Riyas has often claimed credit for the extensive road development since he took office in 2021. Various stakeholders have criticized Vijayan as well.
However, Minister Riyas countered that the Congress-led UDF has historically opposed this project, noting their lack of progress during their own tenure.
“The Congress is using this incident as an opportunity to criticize us. They must recognize that this is a challenge to the people. We are committed to resolving all issues,” stated Riyas.
The Centre has appointed veteran former IIT Delhi Professor K.R. Rao, an authority in road construction, to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
Shafi Parambil, a Congress Lok Sabha member, welcomed the appointment, stating, “This decision was anticipated. A detailed examination of the projects is necessary. We have raised this issue in Parliament several times. We hope for a smoother process moving forward.”
Point of View
It is crucial to maintain an unbiased perspective. The events highlight the need for accountability in infrastructure projects, and the swift actions taken by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways demonstrate a commitment to safety. Stakeholders must collaborate to ensure that such incidents do not recur, reinforcing trust in public infrastructure initiatives.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the collapse of National Highway 66?
The collapse was attributed to structural issues during its construction by KNR Constructions Limited, prompting immediate actions by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
What actions were taken against KNR Constructions?
KNR Constructions Limited has been banned from continuing work, alongside the consultants involved in the project.
Who has been suspended following the incident?
The Construction Project Manager M. Amarnath Reddy and team leader Raj Kumar have both been suspended.
What has the government done in response to the collapse?
The Centre appointed K.R. Rao, a former IIT Delhi professor, to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
How are political figures reacting to this situation?
Political leaders, including E.T. Mohammed Basheer and Sunny Joseph, have called for accountability and expressed concerns over the construction quality.
