Embankment Collapse on NH-66 in Kooriyad Triggers Engineering and Oversight Review

On May 19, 2025, a section of the under-construction NH-66 in Kooriyad, Malappuram, experienced a significant collapse. The incident occurred on an embankment built across low-lying paddy fields, leading to the failure of an elevated portion and damage to adjacent service roads. The collapse disrupted traffic and caused minor injuries to several commuters. Authorities attributed the failure to inadequate subsoil bearing capacity and rainwater seepage, which increased pressure on side structures. Officials also identified the absence of a top bitumen layer as a factor that allowed water infiltration during unseasonal rain.

In response, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways commissioned a high-level expert committee, including members from IIT, to investigate the structural integrity of the affected stretch. Initial findings indicated that the embankment failure was concentrated on the upstream side of a reinforced earth wall and linked to loamy soil conditions and persistent waterlogging. Restoration work, including reconstruction and traffic rerouting, is underway. To mitigate recurrence, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to issue new construction guidelines and revise safety protocols for similar projects in Kerala.

The contractor, was held responsible for the collapse and was disqualified from participating in current and future national highway tenders. The supervising Highway Engineering Consultant was also disallowed from future bidding. Further, two senior personnel from both entities were suspended. Political and community reactions included public protests and legal scrutiny. The Kerala High Court has requested a detailed report from the NHAI and emphasized the need for prompt corrective action. As multiple areas along NH-66 continue to show signs of structural stress, a comprehensive audit of the entire corridor has been initiated.

Check out the following video including video footage and further elaboration concerning the collapsed NH-66 section.