Expert team to probe NH collapse in Kollam

While the officials or the construction company has not been able to provide a clear explanation regarding the collapse of the retaining wall of the under-construction National Highway at Mylakkadu in Kollam, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has informed that a high-level probe will be conducted into the incident. The investigation will be carried out by an expert team from Delhi.

Meanwhile, emergency measures have been taken to address the issues related to the accident. The Kerala Water Authority has commenced operations to ensure the availability of drinking water, and the process of replacing the panels in the damaged sector is under way. Regarding the restoration of traffic, full-scale traffic movement on the right service road will be ensured on Sunday. Subsequently, it has also been decided to partially restore traffic on the left road by allowing small vehicles to pass through by noon on Monday.

KSEB cables

District Collector N. Devidas, after discussions with the NHAI officials and representatives of the construction company, clarified that the replacement of the damaged underground Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) cables will commence immediately upon the urgent submission of the relevant report, and the services of home guards and other volunteers will be utilised for traffic regulation.

The NHAI has been instructed to submit details of all inspections conducted in relation to the construction work. To proactively address similar risks, a joint inspection of the Groundwater department, Geology department, Public Works department, National Highway Division and Road Division will be held in other vulnerable areas, including Kottiyam, Mevvaram, Parakkulam, and Kadavoor, with the findings to be immediately communicated.

Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal, after visiting the site on Saturday morning, placed the sole responsibility of the NH collapse on the NHAI and the construction agency. He said the State government bears no liability for the incident. According to the Minister, the State’s role was limited to land acquisition and handover, with all other aspects, including construction and structural integrity, falling under the purview of the NHAI. Minister J. Chinchurani also visited the site.