Uncertainties related to the construction of a vehicular underpass (VUP) being constructed at Kumarichantha in Thiruvananthapuram as part of the development of National Highway 66 have been resolved with the intervention of Shashi Tharoor, MP. After several rounds of discussions with National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav, it was decided to approve the new proposal of three spans of 30 m instead of the single span of 20 m proposed earlier.
Originally, it was assumed that the project would have one field with a length of 20 m in the section. When local residents protested against this, Mr. Tharoor intervened and decided to allow three fields of 20 m. However, the construction of the national highway was stalled when people intensified their agitation saying that it was insufficient. Later, Mr. Tharoor again consulted the NHAI Chairman on the issue and conveyed the concerns and practical difficulties of the public who travel on this road daily.
Subsequently, based on the discussion, NHAI has now approved a new proposal of three fields of 30 m each, a statement said here on Tuesday. The MP also informed that this new decision was taken in consultation with Janakiya Samiti leaders.
Published – 23 Dec 2025 21:20 IST
