Thiruvananthapuram: The damaged stretch of the National Highway at Kooriyad in Malappuram will be reconstructed as an elevated viaduct, built on pillars, as per the decision reached by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the contracting company KNRCL.

KNRCL Managing Director Narasimha Reddy met NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav directly and briefed him on the plan. The Chairman instructed that the new bridge should be completed within six months. However, actual construction can begin only after the demolition of the damaged structure, for which the company has requested additional time.

Reddy explained that, based on soil test results, the original plan was to raise the road using a soil embankment — a method approved by the National Highways division. This was chosen to accelerate construction.

However, subsequent assessments revealed that the soft soil and strong water flow had undermined the stability of the embankment. Additionally, the narrow approach road limited the possibility of widening the foundation, which also contributed to the structural failure.

Representatives from the consultancy firm involved were also present at the meeting. Contractors working on other highway sections also met the Chairman during his visit to Thiruvananthapuram. Project directors from various regions participated in a review of 20 ongoing projects.

Delays in southern district projects

Delays in construction along key stretches — including Paravur–Kottukulangara, Kottukulangara–Kollam, Kollam–Kadampattukonam, Kadampattukonam–Kazhakoottam, and Thuravur–Paravur — were also discussed. Contractors attributed the delays to changes in junction designs following public protests, and to sand shortages.

Venkitaramana, the NHAI Board Member in charge of Kerala, will conduct an on-site inspection of the construction progress from Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam on Tuesday.

Meeting with Chief Secretary

Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav also met Chief Secretary Dr. A. Jayathilak to discuss construction delays and structural issues. The Chief Secretary urged prompt resolution of bottlenecks. Yadav assured that construction activities will be expedited once the monsoon subsides.