Thiruvananthapuram: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) expedited a long-pending proposal to install street lighting along the median of NH 66 stretch between Vizhinjam and Kazhakkoottam, a crucial corridor witnessing rapid urbanisation and heavy traffic growth in the state capital.According to official sources, a detailed proposal was submitted to NHAI regional office seeking approval to float tenders for the project. Once sanctioned, the tender process is expected to begin next month, with installation work slated for completion within six months thereafter. As part of initial progress, around 30 streetlights have already been installed on Muttathara overpass by Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Company Ltd (KEL), offering a glimpse of the larger plan to illuminate the highway. Officials said the remaining stretches, particularly dark and accident-prone zones, will be prioritised in the upcoming phase. “The proposal covers installation of median lighting across all unlit stretches between Vizhinjam and Kazhakkoottam, including major overpasses and junctions,” a senior NHAI official said. “We included detailed cost estimates and technical specifications, and the proposal is currently awaiting approval from the regional office. Once cleared, we will move swiftly to implement the project,” he added. The authority identified overpasses such as Venpalavattom as high-priority locations, citing safety concerns due to poor visibility at night. Several accidents have been reported in recent years on unlit portions of the highway, especially in areas with sharp curves, service road intersections and pedestrian movement. The decision to expedite the project comes amid significant transformation along NH 66 corridor. Over the past decade, both sides of the highway have seen rapid development, including the emergence of IT parks like Technopark, shopping malls, educational institutions, residential complexes and tourism hubs such as Vizhinjam harbour and nearby coastal destinations. Meanwhile, the proposal by a mall on NH 66 to install streetlights from Akkulam to MGM School as part of corporate social responsibility has not yet started. The mall agreed to install lights after an agreement with the city corporation last year. NHAI even gave a No Objection Certificate to the mall, but still no progress has been made so far. Traffic density on this stretch has also surged following infrastructure upgrades and the ongoing development of Vizhinjam seaport, making improved road safety measures increasingly critical. Experts point out that proper median lighting not only enhances visibility for motorists but also helps reduce accidents, improves pedestrian safety and supports night-time economic activity. The lack of adequate lighting has been a long-standing complaint among commuters and residents. With funding provisions already included in the proposal, officials expressed confidence that the project would receive timely clearance. “Given the strategic importance of this stretch and rising traffic volumes, we expect the approval process to be completed soon,” the official added. Once implemented, the project is expected to significantly improve safety and commuting conditions on one of Kerala’s busiest highway stretches.
