What Actions is the Kerala HC Taking on NH 66 Collapse?
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Synopsis
The Kerala High Court has called for an interim report from the NHAI regarding the alarming collapse of NH 66. With accusations flying between the Congress party and the Vijayan government, this incident raises serious questions about accountability and infrastructure integrity in the state. What will the NHAI uncover in its investigation?
Key Takeaways
- Kerala High Court demands interim report from NHAI.
- Collapse of NH 66 raises serious safety concerns.
- Accusations of poor coordination between the state and NHAI.
- Ministry takes action against involved construction firms.
- Calls for accountability and transparency in infrastructure projects.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 23 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court has requested the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) to present an interim report regarding the collapse of the under-construction NH 66 at several locations. This directive came after the court examined a separate petition concerning the state’s road conditions and subsequently turned its focus to extensive media coverage on the NH 66 collapse.
The court mandated the NHAI to provide a comprehensive interim report by Thursday, encompassing all relevant details.
Earlier, V.D. Satheesan, the Leader of Opposition, argued that there was a lack of coordination between the Pinarayi Vijayan administration and the NHAI, leading to the alarming reports that emerged on Monday regarding the structural failures of NH 66, which shocked the state.
In response to the incidents, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways took measures against the Hyderabad-based KNR Constructions and the project consultants, Highway Engineering Company, including suspending two senior officials.
Satheesan highlighted that Union Minister Suresh Gopi mentioned changes made to the DPR of this project. He expressed disbelief that this matter has not been investigated thoroughly, emphasizing the evident lack of collaboration between the Vijayan government and the NHAI.
“We had warned the authorities about the structural issues, particularly in areas where soil tests were not conducted, but our concerns were ignored. The State PWD Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas seems more focused on social media publicity than on addressing these critical issues,” he claimed.
Reports indicate that lapses have been identified in around 50 locations across Thrissur, Malappuram, and Kasargod districts, where 80% of the work had already been completed.
Kasargod Congress MP Rajmohan Unnithan stated that prior to the collapse news, the Vijayan government and the Left were proudly claiming credit for the project, but now they are distancing themselves from the fallout. He noted that he had raised concerns about the work quality based on local feedback, but no action was taken.
Both Vijayan and Riyas, who is also his son-in-law, have asserted that the state government bears no responsibility for the incidents, placing the entire blame on the NHAI.
“The NHAI must address these mistakes. The state government will not intervene to halt construction. We ensured the land was acquired and transferred. However, the Congress appears to be celebrating this incident, acting as an obstacle to the state's progress, and thus they will remain in opposition. I will continue sharing our government's achievements on social media,” Riyas stated.
Meanwhile, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has demanded detailed reports from each location where the structural failures occurred and plans to convene a special meeting to deliberate on this matter.
Point of View
We recognize the critical importance of infrastructure safety. The recent collapse of NH 66 not only raises questions about the quality of construction but also highlights the need for greater collaboration between state governments and national agencies. The public deserves transparency and accountability in such serious matters.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the collapse of NH 66?
The exact cause of the collapse is under investigation, but concerns have been raised about the lack of coordination and soil testing prior to construction.
What actions have been taken against the construction firms involved?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has banned KNR Constructions and suspended two top officials from the project consultants due to the collapse.
How is the Kerala government responding to the situation?
The Kerala government, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, claims that the responsibility lies with the NHAI and that they will not halt ongoing work.
What does the opposition party say about the government's role?
The opposition, particularly the Congress party, has criticized the Vijayan government for failing to ensure quality control and proper oversight of the project.
What steps will be taken next regarding the investigation?
The NHAI has been ordered by the Kerala High Court to submit a detailed interim report regarding the collapse and its implications.
