The recent collapse of a section of National Highway 66 in Kooriyad, Malappuram district, Kerala, has prompted swift action from the central government, highlighting concerns over construction quality and oversight in national infrastructure projects.
On May 19, 2025, at approximately 2:30 PM IST, a segment of the under-construction NH-66 caved in, resulting in injuries to seven individuals and damage to multiple vehicles. The collapse disrupted traffic and raised alarms about the structural integrity of the project.
In response, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation and determine corrective measures. An expert panel, including geotechnical specialists and led by retired IIT-Delhi professor G.V. Rao, was appointed to investigate the incident.
Preliminary findings indicated that the collapse was due to inadequate assessment of ground conditions and failure to enhance ground bearing capacity before construction. Consequently, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) debarred KNR Constructions, the Hyderabad-based concessionaire responsible for the project, and their consultant, Highway Engineering Consultants (HEC), from participating in current and future bids. Additionally, the project manager and consulting team leader were suspended.
IUML MP E.T. Mohammed Basheer met with Minister Gadkari to express concerns over the incident. Gadkari assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted and that responsible parties would face appropriate action, including potential invocation of bank guarantees and blacklisting of the firms involved.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has mandated that remedial measures be implemented at the expense of the concessionaire. The expert panel's recommendations will also inform guidelines to prevent similar incidents in future projects across Kerala.
This incident underscores the critical importance of rigorous planning, quality control, and accountability in national infrastructure development. The government's prompt response aims to restore public confidence and ensure the safety and reliability of India's highway network.