Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has issued a firm directive to expedite the completion of national highway projects across the state while maintaining strict adherence to technical standards. Speaking at a high-level review meeting on Thursday, Vijayan emphasized the urgency of addressing delays in key infrastructure developments to enhance connectivity and support Kerala’s economic growth.

The Chief Minister noted that while the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has generally performed well, progress has lagged in areas such as Vatakara, Thuravoor, and Thiruvananthapuram. He called for stringent action against contractors responsible for the sluggish pace, urging authorities to ensure accountability and efficiency. Highlighting a specific concern in Nadal, Kannur district, Vijayan directed the construction of an underpass to facilitate bus movement, addressing protests from local residents and bus operators who face detours via Chala.

Vijayan stressed the importance of uninterrupted construction, instructing District Collectors and Police Chiefs to resolve any obstructions through proactive dialogue. “Given Kerala’s unique geography and high population density, highway projects must be meticulously planned to minimize disruptions,” he said. Additionally, he ordered the resolution of arbitration cases within a fixed timeframe to prevent further delays.

Also Read: Kerala CM Cautions Against Divisive Agendas, Hails Guru

The meeting reviewed progress on 642 km of roadworks across 17 stretches, with 480 km targeted for completion by December 2025 and 560 km by March 2026, according to a CMO release. Attendees included Public Works Minister P A Mohamed Riyas, Industries Minister P Rajeev, Electricity Minister K Krishnankutty, Chief Secretary V Jayathilak, and NHAI Regional Officer Col A K Janbaz, among others, reflecting a coordinated push to transform Kerala’s highway infrastructure.

Also Read: Kerala CM Demands Congress MLA’s Resignation