NH-66 Kerala: Aug 2026 Completion Set, But Delays & Safety Woes Persist

• National Highway-66 in Kerala is now expected to be completed by August 2026, with Rs 16,500 crore spent so far.
• Project delays are attributed to additional works, material shortages, financial constraints, and extended monsoon periods.
• Five sections, totaling 172 km, have achieved over 80% progress, with most revised completion deadlines set for March-June 2026.
• MoRTH acknowledged drainage failures and waterlogging in Kannur due to construction, requiring new cross-drainage structures.
• An RS wall collapse in Kollam, caused by weak foundation soil, led to NHAI suspending the involved concessionaire and independent engineer from future bidding.

Why It Matters: NH-66 delays and quality issues impact Kerala's infrastructure and public safety.