Overview

• The NHAI-appointed inquiry found that most NH-66 construction packages in Kerala violated MoRTH specifications, particularly in slope and embankment works.
• Investigators identified weak bearing-capacity soils and flawed soil nailing designs that ignored groundwater levels and geological conditions.
• The probe revealed a lack of third-party quality checks and geological input, contributing to collapses of reinforced earth walls and slope subsidence.
• MoRTH has debarred firms including KNR Constructions and Highway Engineering Consultant and suspended contractors responsible for defective sections.
• Experts have called for mandatory site-specific geotechnical investigations, continuous slope monitoring, and engagement of geoscience agencies before further highway work.