Persistent Issues Cloud Project's Final Stages
Recent reports indicate significant progress on the National Highway 66 (NH-66) project in Kannur and Kasaragod districts, with authorities aiming for completion before the impending monsoon. However, this apparent near-completion is overshadowed by ongoing structural failures and recurring collapses on newly constructed sections, raising profound questions about construction quality and long-term viability. While officials claim only minor finishing works remain on service roads and a few bridges, multiple reports detail collapses and fissures appearing on under-construction and recently built portions across various districts, including Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has reportedly begun imposing fines on contractors for delays, a move that stands in stark contrast to the pervasive quality concerns.
A Pattern of Collapse and Concern
The narrative surrounding the NH-66 upgrade is one of repeated structural incidents. Since late 2025, there have been multiple reports of road collapses and fissures, particularly in areas like Malappuram (Vengara, Kooriyad), Kasaragod (Mavungal, Thekkilkunnu), and Kannur. These failures, occurring even before the project's official completion and sometimes linked to recent rains, have sparked widespread criticism and concerns over 'unscientific construction practices on elevated portions.'
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The project, intended to transform approximately 643 km of the highway into a six-lane, signal-free corridor, has seen its timelines shift considerably. Originally slated for completion by December 31, 2025, revised timelines now peg the completion by mid-2026, with some sources suggesting an inauguration in January 2026. This constant revision suggests a more complex reality on the ground than the pronouncements of imminent completion might suggest.
Progress and Peril: A Dual Narrative
While specific stretches, such as Thalappady–Chengala (39 km) and parts of the Kozhikode Bypass (28.4 km), are cited as being in their final phases or largely completed, the broader picture is far from settled. As of February 23, 2026, reports indicated that 184.83 km of the six-laning work had been completed in Kerala, with a substantial 538.76 km progressing at an average of 72.5%.
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Yet, the completion figures often appear juxtaposed with reports of ongoing remedial works and safety rectifications, especially on sections that have experienced failures. The project spans the entire length of Kerala, connecting Panvel in Maharashtra to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, passing through key districts like Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kochi, Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram. The stated objective of enhancing connectivity and reducing travel time – potentially cutting the Ernakulam-Thiruvananthapuram stretch to 2.5 hours – appears to be pursued through a process fraught with immediate structural concerns.
Background: An Ambitious Undertaking Facing Complex Realities
The NH-66 widening is characterized as Kerala's most ambitious infrastructure project, aiming to create a modern, high-speed corridor. However, it has been under intense scrutiny, not just for delays but for fundamental issues concerning the integrity of the construction itself. The repeated incidents have prompted directives for 'stricter quality control and improved engineering standards' from the NHAI. The project's complexity, involving upgrades across 22 distinct stretches, likely contributes to the varying paces of work and the challenges in ensuring uniform quality and timely delivery. The looming monsoon season adds another layer of urgency and potential risk to the remaining unfinished works.
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