The Kerala High Court, while hearing a writ petition on May 23, expressed serious concern regarding the collapse of a recently elevated stretch of National Highway 66 (NH-66) in the Malappuram district. The court highlighted the growing public anxiety over the safety and quality of roads in Kerala.
"This is a matter of great concern for every citizen in Kerala," stated Justice Devan Ramachandran, as he reflected on the ongoing issues with highway construction in the state. He noted that the public had shown immense patience during the construction process, hoping for a safe and reliable roadway.
The hearing took place in the case titled C.P. Ajithkumar and another v. The State of Kerala and others (WP(C) No. 32680 of 2008). The court was reviewing the troubling situation involving the elevated highway section that collapsed recently, sparking fear among the public about construction safety and accountability.
"News now encountered certainly creates great anxiety and this is while this Court, in the last orders, said that an inevitable sense of foreboding sets in," the judge remarked, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
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During the hearing, Sri. Bidan Chandran, the standing counsel for the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), acknowledged that
“there had been certain lapses with respect to the construction of the highway in certain places.”
This open concession led the Court to direct NHAI to submit a detailed report after a High-Level Committee examines the issue.
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The Court decided to give the NHAI more time to file this report. “Sri. Bidan Chandran wants more time to file the report, I propose to offer the NHAI such latitude,” said Justice Ramachandran, showing a balanced approach by allowing reasonable time while maintaining judicial scrutiny.
In addition to the NH-66 issue, the Court had also issued an interim order earlier in the week regarding the deteriorating condition of MG Road in Ernakulam, reflecting the broader concerns about road infrastructure in the state.
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The matter has been listed for further hearing next Thursday. The Court’s directions show its active involvement in ensuring accountability and better infrastructure for the people of Kerala.
The petitioners were represented by Tom K. Thomas, while the respondents included a wide range of legal representatives such as Benhur Joseph Manayani, S. Krishnamoorthy CGC, and Johnson Manayani, among others. Various stakeholders including the Cochin Corporation, GCDA, and the Kerala Water Authority were also represented.
This case underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in public infrastructure projects. With the judiciary stepping in, there is now greater hope for improved safety standards and timely completion of quality roadways in the state.
"Every one of us are looking forward to a high-performing highway," said Justice Ramachandran, summarizing the public's expectations and the need for dependable road infrastructure.
Case No: WP(C) No. 32680 of 2008
Case Title: C.P. Ajithkumar and another v. The State of Kerala and others
