The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken stringent action by debaring its concessionaire, Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd., for one year following the collapse of slope protection works on the Chengala–Neeleshwaram section of National Highway 66 in Kerala. The failure, which occurred on 16 June 2025 in Cherkkala, Kasaragod district, was attributed to inadequate drainage, improper design, and substandard slope protection measures.

In addition to the debarment, NHAI has issued a show-cause notice that may result in a monetary penalty of up to Rs 90 million. Under the terms of the hybrid annuity highway project, Megha Engineering is responsible for maintaining this section for 15 years, and will be required to reconstruct the failed slope protection at its own cost.

An expert committee, including a senior scientist from the Central Road Research Institute, a retired professor from IIT Palakkad, and a representative from the Geological Survey of India, has been formed to assess the incident. The committee will conduct an on-site technical review and propose remedial measures to restore the slope and prevent similar failures in the future.

Following the incident, NHAI emphasised that all necessary measures are being taken to address the cause of the collapse and uphold the integrity of national highway infrastructure. This decisive action sends a strong message about the regulator’s commitment to project quality and accountability.