PWD Minister P.K. Basheer laments slow pace of NH works in Keralam
As of now, approximately 70% of the National Highway 66 (NH 66) construction in Kerala has been completed, according to PWD Minister P.K. Basheer. Despite holding two meetings with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, the pace of work has not significantly increased. Basheer highlighted several challenges impeding progress, including the contractors' unfamiliarity with Kerala's specific requirements.
Many contractors had not visited the state or site and rarely attended the meetings called. Basheer warned that the NH 66 project might not be finished by 2027-28. Addressing a calling attention motion by K.N. Balagopal, the minister emphasized the need to prioritize MC Road works, including repairs on the Thiruvananthapuram-Chengannur, Kottayam-Angamali, and Kazhakuttam-Adoor sections.
Funds have been allocated for these repairs, and the Kottarakara bypass project is advancing with a ₹254.81 crore administrative sanction. Basheer also mentioned a forthcoming meeting of MPs and MLAs to discuss MC Road development.
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