The proposed greenfield highway project between Karur and Coimbatore is likely to face a delay of two years.

The construction of the national highway from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram is scheduled for completion by December 2025. This update followed a meeting involving the Union Minister for Road Transport and the Chief Minister of Kerala, where discussions focused on addressing lapses in the construction process, proposed corrective measures, and ensuring accountability.

The meeting began with a review of the issues identified in the construction work. Officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had already submitted detailed reports on the lapses, which led to disciplinary action. The responsible officials were suspended, and the contracting company was blacklisted. Structural issues, such as cracks, were found not only in Kooriyad (Malappuram district) but also in other parts of the state, prompting the state to raise concerns. These concerns were acknowledged and intervention plans were formulated.

The Union Government assured the state that a 360-metre viaduct would be constructed and that any construction flaws would be rectified at the contractor's expense. The central government reiterated its commitment to maintaining construction quality, warning against any future irregularities. The NHAI will remain fully responsible for the construction, while the state government will handle land acquisition, which has been noted as significantly costlier in Kerala compared to other states.

Despite ongoing challenges, including land acquisition hurdles, the project has shown progress. It is expected to be completed on time, with the aim of presenting the finished highway as a New Year gift to the people in 2026. The central government confirmed that the project would continue without interruption, with timely resolution of any emerging issues. The state government has also extended full cooperation and allocated funds to support the project.

Out of 20 proposed highway projects from Kerala, 14 have received central approval. The remaining proposals are under further review. The state remains committed to the timely completion of the national highway and has consistently worked in collaboration with the Centre.

Meanwhile, the state government criticised the approach of opposition parties, questioning the appropriateness of their response and their past inaction during their tenure in power. It was noted that delays during the opposition's rule were due to internal political conflicts, and current expenditures are partly the result of earlier administrative failures.

News source: English Mathrubhumi