Renowned engineer E. Sreedharan—often called the “Metro Man” for his pivotal role in India’s metro projects—has raised serious concerns over the ongoing National Highway 66 six-lane expansion in Kerala. Speaking to the media after inspecting the site, Sreedharan identified critical design and safety issues that, if unaddressed, could jeopardize both motorists and long-term infrastructure integrity.
Sreedharan criticized the decision to fit six lanes within a mere 45-meter corridor, calling it “unscientific.” He noted that such a configuration forces service roads to narrow excessively, leaving little to no space for pedestrian footpaths. “Safety features must not be compromised,” he asserted, pointing out that the constrained design had already led to the collapse of a reinforced wall and a service road segment near Kooriyad in Malappuram.
Highlighting the overuse of flyovers with steep embankments through hilly terrain, Sreedharan warned that deep soil cuttings should have been avoided. “These flaws can manifest as cracks or, worse, structural failures,” he said, referencing recent fissures on stretches in Kannur and Thrissur. He also urged the government to hold design and DPR consultants, not just contractors, accountable for these lapses.
Despite writing twice to the Public Works Minister about these issues, Sreedharan reported receiving no response. He emphasized that the Public Works Department must exercise stricter oversight. “I stand ready to assist further, if the government or legal authorities reach out,” he concluded.
