Thiruvananthapuram: The state govt has sought Tamil Nadu’s intervention to ensure uninterrupted transportation of construction materials, particularly crushed stone, from the neighbouring state to Keralam, as it steps up efforts to accelerate the delayed NH 66 development project, PWD minister K M Basheer said.The state govt has been closely monitoring the progress of NH 66 works and has raised concerns over the slow pace of construction in several stretches. The issue was highlighted in memorandums submitted directly to Union minister for road transport and highways on July 7 and Sept 24, 2026, seeking urgent intervention to expedite the works.According to National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), delays have been caused by additional demands raised by people’s representatives, deficiencies in construction practices, shortages of materials and lapses on the part of contractors and workers.Restrictions on the movement of construction materials from Tamil Nadu to Keralam in recent months have also resulted in temporary shortages, further affecting the pace of construction.Following meetings convened by chief minister and the public works minister to review the progress of NH 66 projects, the state govt has taken steps to address the supply constraints. The state secretary has sent a letter to his Tamil Nadu counterpart requesting suitable relaxations or administrative measures within the existing regulatory framework to facilitate the uninterrupted interstate transportation of crushed stone. Keralam is awaiting a favourable response.Govt has also directed the industries department and district collectors to expedite applications related to earth excavation and quarrying required for national highway construction.Meanwhile, a meeting of people’s representatives will be convened under the chairmanship of chief minister in the coming weeks to resolve issues arising from additional demands and ensure timely completion of the works. A list of the required interventions will subsequently be communicated to NHAI.
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