The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has revised the completion deadline for the six-laning of the Edappally-Moothakunnam stretch of NH 66 to December. This 24-kilometer corridor is among the busiest in the region,with approximately 75% of the construction already finished. The upgrade aims to facilitate vehicle speeds ranging from 80 km/h to 100 km/h, according to NHAI sources.
The expansion will widen the highway to 45 meters, incorporating service roads, drainage systems,and other essential infrastructure. Service roads, where feasible, will be seven meters wide to accommodate two-way traffic. Soil testing conducted in May was part of the design process for the retaining walls along this busy corridor .
In terms of infrastructure,a new parallel bridge at Varapuzha was opened to traffic earlier this year,while another bridge at Moothakunnam is nearing completion. The approach roads to existing bridges along the 22-kilometer stretch are being widened to enhance traffic flow. Once finished, the new bridges will feature three lanes,while existing ones will maintain a two-lane configuration.
However, community concerns persist regarding safety along the highway. NGOs, local residents,and elected officials are advocating for additional underpasses to facilitate safe crossings for vehicles and pedestrians. Hashim Chendampilly,chairman of the NH Samyukta Samara Samithi,emphasized the need for these structures,particularly in densely populated areas with schools and places of worship . He pointed out that there is currently no underpass along 2.5-kilometer stretch between Kunnumpuram Junction and the intersection with Container Road.
Chendampilly urged the NHAI to expedite construction of proposed underpass for light vehicles at Thykavu Junction,located centrally within that 2.5-kilometer stretch. He also highlighted the necessity for underpasses at Koonammavu and Pattanam. He warned that NGOs and local groups would not permit further construction until these underpasses are built.
In addition to underpasses, there are calls for improved drainage facilities along the highway to mitigate waterlogging issues. The NHAI has indicated its willingness to allocate funds to local authorities to implement measures aimed at preventing water accumulation along Edappally-Kodungalloor stretch of NH 66. This initiative is expected to enhance drainage from service roads into nearby water bodies, thereby addressing community concerns about flooding.
