Overview

• A 200-metre section of the under-construction NH-66 in Kooriyad, Kerala, collapsed on May 19, revealing critical engineering failures in waterlogged terrain.
• The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has blacklisted KNR Constructions and Highway Engineering Company, and suspended two key project officials for their roles in the failure.
• Independent expert panels and IIT researchers are investigating soil conditions, design flaws, and construction practices to determine the root causes of the collapse.
• Residents in Kozhikode, Thrissur, Kasaragod, and Kannur have reported additional cracks and landslides, leading to protests and traffic diversions in affected areas.
• Political leaders are engaged in a blame game, with the state government attributing responsibility to the NHAI and opposition leaders alleging rushed and unscientific construction practices.