Centre admits land acquisition, material shortage delaying NH-66 works

NEW DELHI: The Central Government has acknowledged that issues related to land acquisition, along with contractor financial constraints, unforeseen incidents, and scarcity of construction materials, are causing delays in the construction of National Highway 66. However, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari informed MP P.V. Abdul Wahab in the Rajya Sabha that despite setbacks, progress is being made and revised completion dates for various stretches have been fixed.

According to Gadkari’s written reply to MP K.C. Venugopal, an expert committee appointed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) identified defects at 15 locations, including Chemmankadavu–Neeleswaram, Azhiyur–Vengalam, Thuravoor–Paravur, Kollam Bypass–Kadampattukonam, Kanhangad, Paloli–Moorad, Thalappady, Chavakkad, Neeravil, Alathur Swathi Junction, and the Kayamkulam–Chavara bridges, besides Kooriyad.

Soil nailing failure reported

The primary contractor, Adani Group, admitted that the soil nailing technique used in hilly stretches of the highway failed. This method involves driving nails into the soil to prevent landslides. Contractors have now suggested acquiring additional buffer land in such areas. MP Shafi Parambil had flagged these failures to Gadkari during a meeting attended by Adani representatives. The minister warned contractors that failure to adhere to timelines could result in contract termination, citing lapses in work by the subcontractor Vagath Construction Company.

Construction progress and expected completion

Thalappady–Chengala, Valanchery–Kappirikkad stretches – 98% complete (to be finished soon)

Thuravoor South–Paravur stretch – 45% complete (Expected completion: May 31, 2026)

Azhiyur–Vengalam stretch – 58% complete (Expected completion: May 31, 2026)