NHAI Accelerates Street Lighting Initiative for NH 66 in Thiruvananthapuram
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has prioritized a long-delayed plan to install street lighting along the median of National Highway 66, covering the stretch between Vizhinjam and Kazhakkoottam. This critical corridor in Kerala's capital is experiencing swift urbanization and a surge in traffic, making enhanced road safety measures imperative.
Proposal Details and Implementation Timeline
According to official sources, a comprehensive proposal has been submitted to the NHAI regional office, seeking authorization to issue tenders for the project. Once approved, the tender process is anticipated to commence next month, with installation work projected to be completed within six months. As an initial step, approximately 30 streetlights have already been installed on the Muttathara overpass by the Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Company Ltd (KEL), providing a preview of the broader initiative to illuminate the highway.
Officials have emphasized that the remaining sections, particularly those that are dark and prone to accidents, will be given top priority in the upcoming phase. A senior NHAI official stated, "The proposal encompasses the installation of median lighting across all unlit stretches between Vizhinjam and Kazhakkoottam, including major overpasses and junctions. We have included detailed cost estimates and technical specifications, and the proposal is currently awaiting approval from the regional office. Once cleared, we will move swiftly to implement the project."
Safety Concerns and High-Priority Locations
The authority has identified overpasses such as Venpalavattom as high-priority sites, citing safety risks due to inadequate visibility at night. In recent years, several accidents have been reported on unlit portions of the highway, especially in areas featuring sharp curves, intersections with service roads, and pedestrian activity. The decision to expedite this project aligns with the significant transformation occurring along the NH 66 corridor.
Over the past decade, both sides of the highway have witnessed rapid development, including the emergence of IT parks like Technopark, shopping malls, educational institutions, residential complexes, and tourism hubs such as the Vizhinjam harbour and nearby coastal destinations.
Traffic Growth and Economic Impact
Traffic density on this stretch has escalated following infrastructure upgrades and the ongoing development of the Vizhinjam seaport, underscoring the urgent need for improved road safety measures. Experts highlight that proper median lighting not only boosts visibility for drivers but also aids in reducing accidents, enhances pedestrian safety, and supports nighttime economic activities. The absence of sufficient lighting has been a persistent grievance among commuters and residents.
Funding and Project Confidence
With funding provisions already incorporated into the proposal, officials are optimistic about receiving timely clearance. "Given the strategic importance of this stretch and rising traffic volumes, we expect the approval process to be completed soon," the official added. Once implemented, the project is poised to substantially improve safety and commuting conditions on one of Kerala's busiest highway segments.
Additional Context and Delayed CSR Initiative
In related developments, a proposal by a mall on NH 66 to install streetlights from Akkulam to MGM School as part of a corporate social responsibility initiative has yet to commence. The mall had agreed to install the lights following an agreement with the city corporation last year, and NHAI even issued a No Objection Certificate, but no progress has been made so far.
