NHAI Debars Megha Engineering Over Slope Protection Failure on NH-66 in Kerala

A slope protection collapse occurred on 16th June 2025 at Cherkkala in Kasaragod district, along the Chengala–Neeleshwaram section of NH-66 in Kerala. The incident was attributed to improper design, inadequate slope protection, and a poor drainage system.

The concessionaire, Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd., has been debarred from future bids due to failure in implementing adequate protective measures. A Show Cause Notice has also been issued for a one-year debarment along with a monetary penalty of up to ₹9 crore.

The project is being executed under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM), with the concessionaire responsible for 15 years of maintenance. The slope protection works will now be reconstructed at the concessionaire’s cost.

To investigate the matter and recommend corrective actions, NHAI has constituted an expert committee comprising senior experts from CRRI, IIT-Palakkad (Retd.), and GSI. The committee will review the NH-66 design and construction in Kerala and propose remedial solutions. NHAI is taking all necessary steps to address the issue and enhance future slope safety measures.