PAC Criticizes NHAI Over Delayed Highway Projects in Kerala
Committee demands urgent action on construction delays, safety audits, and toll plaza complaints.
1Legislative Oversight on Infrastructure
The Public Accounts Committee, chaired by MP K.C. Venugopal, held a meeting in Thiruvananthapuram to address the sluggish pace of National Highway projects in Kerala. Officials from the National Highways Authority of India confirmed a revised completion target of March 2027, facing intense scrutiny regarding the persistent delays in project delivery.
2Cross-Border Material Logistics
A primary bottleneck identified during the session involves restrictions imposed by Tamil Nadu on the transportation of essential construction materials. Venugopal directed the NHAI to coordinate directly with the neighbouring state government to resolve these logistical hurdles, which currently impede the steady supply chain required for ongoing highway development across the region.
3Digital Feedback for Tolls
Commuters have voiced significant dissatisfaction regarding the operational standards of various toll plazas. In response to these grievances, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways stated that user feedback will be systematically collected through the Rajmarg Yatra mobile application, ensuring that specific complaints are addressed with appropriate administrative actions moving forward.
4Safety Audit Implementation Status
Following the Kuriad accident, the committee reviewed the status of mandatory safety audits intended to identify design flaws. While 328 accident-prone locations were initially identified across Kerala, inspections have only been completed at 170 sites. The committee expressed deep concern over this slow progress, emphasizing that passenger safety remains an absolute non-negotiable priority.
5Infrastructure Remediation Plans
To mitigate identified safety deficiencies, construction has commenced on eight kilometers of viaducts in critical stretches. Furthermore, a proposal is currently under active consideration to construct an additional 22 kilometers of viaducts across 73 locations. NHAI officials have committed to addressing the remaining identified safety issues following a comprehensive review of inspection reports.
6Service Road Development Requirements
The NHAI clarified that the construction of seven-meter-wide service roads is contingent upon the state government acquiring and transferring the necessary land. Venugopal urged the Chief Secretary to facilitate this land acquisition process, highlighting that better coordination between state and central authorities is essential to remove existing bottlenecks and accelerate construction.
7Toll Collection Policy Review
The committee specifically questioned the continuation of toll collection at Nattika, citing the poor condition of the road surface. C.N. Singh, Joint Secretary of the Union Ministry, indicated that the government might consider suspending toll collection if official assessments confirm that the road quality fails to meet the required maintenance standards for users.
8Strategic Focus for Completion
The PAC concluded that highway development must balance construction timelines with rigorous safety standards and user satisfaction. By integrating safety audits, resolving interstate material disputes, and addressing toll-related complaints, the committee aims to ensure that the March 2027 completion deadline is met without compromising the structural integrity or safety of the infrastructure.
Original article: The Hindu – National — PAC Criticizes NHAI Over Delayed Highway Projects in Kerala