In a significant move to enhance road safety, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated the installation of streetlights along construction zones on National Highway 66 between Kallambalam and Kazhakkoottam. This step directly addresses long-standing complaints from commuters about dangerous, dark stretches on the widened highway and aims to reduce the risk of accidents after sunset.
Responding to Public Safety Concerns
The decision follows repeated reports in local media highlighting the safety hazards caused by non-functional lighting on the busy corridor. A senior NHAI official associated with the Kazhakkoottam–Kallambalam project confirmed the action. "Temporary and permanent lighting has been installed around active construction zones to improve visibility for both motorists and workers," the official stated. The authority is also coordinating with local bodies to ensure regular maintenance, so the lights remain operational throughout the construction phase.
Residents Welcome Change, Highlight Need for Maintenance
People living along the highway have expressed relief at the new lighting initiative. K Ramesh Kumar, a resident of Attingal, shared his experience, stating that travelling after dark was previously a frightening ordeal. "Poor visibility forced drivers to slow down suddenly, and several accidents occurred because it was difficult to see the road edges," he said. While acknowledging the noticeable improvement, Kumar and others stressed the critical need for consistent upkeep and safer service roads for pedestrians.
The lighting work is being carried out in tandem with other traffic management measures, including the phased opening of underpasses and service roads. This initiative is part of the broader, multi-stretch project to widen NH-66 across the state. Officials have indicated that most stretches of NH-66 are now targeted for completion by mid-2026, though some local segments have experienced delays.
Broader Safety Plan and Future Coordination
Authorities clarified that lighting is just one component of a comprehensive road safety strategy. Other measures being implemented include:
- Improved signage and reflective road markings.
- Well-planned temporary diversions.
- Stricter enforcement of speed limits.
In a related development, the city corporation has proposed median lighting on sections between Kazhakootam and Chackai, funded through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and private sources. NHAI has agreed to coordinate responsibilities for this proposal to avoid past disputes over installation and maintenance duties.
While progress continues, challenges remain. On the Kazhakkoottam–Kadampattukonam stretch, for instance, persistent rainfall has slowed construction. However, work on crucial infrastructure like underpasses and flyovers is ongoing, keeping the focus on the 2026 deadline for a safer, fully operational NH-66.
