No more two-way driving! Service roads in Malappuram made one-way

Malappuram: The Malappuram District Road Safety Committee has decided that the service roads along National Highway 66 will now function as one-way routes. The decision, taken at a meeting chaired by the District Collector, aims to improve safety and traffic flow in the district.

Previously, the National Highway Authority had stated—through a Right to Information (RTI) response—that service roads were originally designed to be two-way. However, local governments were given the authority to implement necessary changes depending on traffic conditions. Currently, vehicles are moving in both directions on most service roads in the district, causing frequent congestion and accidents.

Kerala’s service roads are typically only 6.5 metres wide, with the road slab and surface constructed at different levels. This narrow space makes it difficult for two vehicles to pass simultaneously. In several areas, the roads are even narrower, leading to severe traffic bottlenecks, especially near major junctions and underpasses.

Considering these challenges, the committee decided to make the service roads one-way to ensure smoother traffic management and safer driving conditions.

The committee also ordered the removal of obstructions such as auto-rickshaw stands, unauthorised parking, and roadside vending along the service roads. Local bodies will be responsible for relocating or reorganising these stands so they do not disrupt traffic movement.

Furthermore, only long-distance buses, including those operated by KSRTC, will be allowed to use the main highway. Short-distance buses, autos, and two-wheelers will be restricted to the service roads under the new traffic plan.

The decision to make NH 66 service roads one-way in Malappuram comes amid growing concerns about safety and congestion. The Road Safety Committee, which includes representatives from the police, the Motor Vehicles Department, and the National Highway Authority, conducted a detailed assessment before finalising the move.

The committee noted that the two-way movement of vehicles on the narrow service roads was a key factor in several minor accidents and traffic jams reported across the district. These roads were built mainly for local and short-distance use, while the main highway was meant for long-distance and high-speed traffic.

At present, several points along NH 66—especially near junctions, underpasses, and market areas—face severe traffic pressure due to the misuse of service roads for two-way travel. The uneven elevation between the road and slab sections has further reduced manoeuvring space for vehicles.

As part of the new plan, the district administration has instructed local bodies to coordinate with traffic police for effective enforcement. The relocation of auto stands and the removal of encroachments will be prioritised to make the service roads obstruction-free.

Officials expect the new one-way system to significantly reduce traffic conflicts, enhance safety for motorists and pedestrians, and ensure smoother travel across key stretches of NH 66 in Malappuram.