The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has officially initiated a comprehensive survey for installing streetlights along the median of National Highway 66, covering the stretch from Kazhakkoottam to Karode in Thiruvananthapuram. This crucial step aims to illuminate hazardous dark sections of the highway, which have been linked to numerous accidents and persistent visibility issues for motorists.
Survey to Identify Locations for Double Arm Streetlights
A senior NHAI official confirmed that the detailed survey is underway to pinpoint exact spots where double arm streetlights are necessary on the median. "We have commenced the survey to determine precise locations for median lighting. In areas where such lights are currently missing, we intend to complete their installation within the next six months," the official stated. The project specifically targets sections where median lighting was either absent or non-functional, despite previous highway widening and upgrading efforts, raising significant safety concerns among drivers.
Interim Lighting Work Begins on 2km Section
In parallel, the Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Company Ltd (KEL) has started installing 30 median streetlights over a 2-kilometer segment from Muttathara to Kumairchantha. This stretch extends up to the starting point of a proposed flyover and includes the vicinity around the Muttathara overpass on NH 66. The interim lighting work will begin with excavation in the median, and NHAI has already issued the required no objection certificate to the executing agency, facilitating prompt implementation.
Progress on Long-Pending Safety Demand
This initiative represents tangible progress in addressing a long-standing demand for improved highway lighting. However, not all related projects are advancing at the same speed. For instance, the much-anticipated Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)-backed streetlight installation in front of a mall at Akkulam has yet to commence, despite approvals, allocated funds, and finalized plans being in place.
Delay in CSR-Backed Project Due to GST Issue
According to corporation secretary Jahamgeer S, the work order for the Akkulam project has been issued, and installation is expected to begin soon by a private partner. "The delay was primarily caused by the addition of Goods and Services Tax (GST) to the project cost. This issue has now been resolved, and the work will start shortly," he explained. The resolution of this financial hurdle is anticipated to expedite the installation process, enhancing safety in that specific area.
Overall, the NHAI's survey and the ongoing interim lighting efforts mark significant strides toward mitigating accident risks on NH 66, underscoring a renewed focus on highway safety infrastructure in the region.
