NH 66, NH 544 safety blackouts in Thrissur to be fixed in a month: NHAI

Remains of a car that was involved in an accident that claimed the lives of eight engineering students in Kaipamangalam, Thrissur. | Photo credit: KK NAJEEB

After the fatal Kaipamangalam accident that claimed eight lives, the authorities have been given one month’s time to rectify safety lapses found along National Highways 66 and 544 in Thrissur district. The NHAI project directors said in a review meeting chaired by Sports Minister OJ Janeesh that the deficiencies would be addressed within the stipulated time.

The evaluation meeting evaluated the progress of construction, maintenance, modernization and safety measures on both highways. Safety deficiencies, waterlogging and problems for pedestrians came to the fore.

NHAI project directors told the meeting that the deficiencies found during a joint inspection by the police, motor vehicle department, local bodies and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) would be rectified within a month.

Drainage, waterlogging

The meeting also demanded urgent steps to address drainage and waterlogging. A joint team comprising local engineers and officials, NHAI representatives and PWD Roads officials will inspect the affected areas and prepare estimates which will be verified by the district panchayat executive engineer before submitting to the district administration.

Warning signs and lighting would be installed immediately on the construction and diversion sections. NHAI said street lights and other lighting facilities would be provided within two weeks. High-intensity warning signs visible from a distance and signboards displaying local place names were also recommended.

The police pointed out that low-quality reflective stickers were used at some turn-off points instead of high-quality material. A field inspection will also be carried out at the Paliyekkara toll plaza following complaints of long queues. Representatives of the police, NHAI, district administration and contractors will jointly inspect the site.

10 feet of bridging

NHAI informed the meeting that 10 feet flyovers have been approved on NH 66. Those at Vadanappally and Thalikulam have been completed while construction is underway at Valapad, Engandiyur and Edakkazhiyur. The remaining five bridges have not yet been occupied. NHAI said the ongoing work will be completed by October 15.

A joint team of police, motor vehicle department, finance department and NHAI will identify suitable parking spots for heavy vehicles, including trucks and lorries, during the week. The minister directed the police and RTOs to take strict action against traffic violations and asked the NHAI to submit a report with clear timelines for various works.

Published – 15 Sep 2026 22:32 IST