National Highway 66 (NH 66), formerly known as NH 17, stretches along India’s western coastline, connecting Panvel near Mumbai to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. This vital corridor traverses Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Kerala, serving as a crucial artery for commerce, tourism, and daily commutes. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over its significance, with structural failures, accidents, and public dissatisfaction highlighting pressing concerns.

Structural Failures and Safety Concerns

Kooriyad Collapse in Malappuram

On May 19, 2025, a significant structural failure occurred near Kooriyad in Malappuram district, Kerala. A section of the under-construction NH 66 collapsed, including a retaining wall, onto the service road built over a filled paddy field. This incident resulted in injuries to seven individuals and damage to multiple vehicles. The collapse raised serious questions about construction practices and oversight.

In response, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, assured strict action against the responsible parties. The construction firm KNR Constructions and consultancy firm Highway Engineering Consultants were debarred from future projects. Additionally, a high-level technical committee, including experts from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), was formed to investigate the incident and recommend measures to prevent such occurrences.

Design Flaws Highlighted by Experts

E. Sreedharan, renowned as the "Metro Man" of India, voiced serious concerns regarding the ongoing six-laning project of NH 66 in Kerala. He criticized the unscientific decision to construct a six-lane highway within a 45-meter width, arguing that it compromises safety and functionality. Sreedharan highlighted design flaws such as the excessive construction of flyovers with large embankments and deep cuttings, which are unsuitable for Kerala’s hilly terrain. He emphasized that essential elements like proper service roads and pedestrian walkways have been neglected.

Accidents and Road Conditions

Fatalities and Injuries

NH 66 has witnessed several accidents recently, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety measures.

In Mangaluru, a 54-year-old electrician tragically lost his life in a bike accident on NH 66.

Near Udupi, a speeding bus overturned on NH 66, resulting in minor injuries to several passengers. Preliminary investigations attributed the accident to over-speeding and alleged driver negligence.

Potholes and Road Damage

The Mumbai-Goa stretch of NH 66, particularly between Panvel and Indapur, has been plagued by potholes and incomplete flyovers. Despite ongoing construction and repairs, the road conditions remain hazardous, especially during the monsoon season. The Bombay High Court has previously pulled up the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for not taking the pothole issue seriously, directing them to fill all potholes and file a compliance affidavit.

Public Reaction and Protests

The deteriorating conditions of NH 66 have sparked widespread public outrage. Following the Kooriyad collapse, protests erupted in the region, with Indian Youth Congress workers organizing a protest march to the KNR Constructions office. The Muslim Youth League also held a protest march at Kooriyad, demanding accountability and swift action.

Social media platforms have been flooded with complaints from commuters highlighting the poor road conditions, frequent accidents, and lack of timely maintenance. The public's frustration is further exacerbated by the slow pace of construction and the perceived negligence of authorities.

Government Response and Future Measures

In light of the recent incidents, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has initiated several measures to address the issues plaguing NH 66. Apart from debarring the responsible construction and consultancy firms, the Ministry has ordered a comprehensive review of the six-laning works across Kerala. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has been directed to submit detailed reports on the construction quality and safety measures implemented.

Furthermore, the government is considering revising the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for ongoing and upcoming projects to ensure they meet the required safety and quality standards. There is also a push for increased transparency and accountability in the execution of highway projects, with calls for involving independent experts in the planning and monitoring processes.

Conclusion

National Highway 66, envisioned as a vital link along India's western coast, is currently grappling with significant challenges that threaten its functionality and safety. Structural failures, poor road conditions, and a spate of accidents have not only disrupted travel but also eroded public trust in the authorities responsible for its maintenance and development.

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach involving stringent oversight, adherence to safety standards, and active public engagement. As the government takes steps to rectify the situation, it is imperative that lessons are learned to prevent such lapses in the future, ensuring that NH 66 truly serves as a reliable and safe artery for the regions it connects.