On December 5, 2025, a sidewall embankment on an under-construction elevated NH-66 stretch collapsed during soil-filling work, opening craters that trapped vehicles including a school bus (all evacuated safely) — the second such embankment failure on this corridor within six months.
On record
The official record states: "A panchayat official suggested water accumulation/soil pressure during rain; the state PWD Minister raised concerns about unscientific construction in a waterlogging-prone area."
Filed as "Collapsed (under construction)" and dated to 2025, this entry sits under the "₹1,385 crore (cost of the 31.25km widening project this stretch belongs to)" line of the public accounts.
What to expect
- A surface that renegotiates its shape with every monsoon.
- Potholes deep enough to have their own microclimate.
- Freshly laid tar, laid with real optimism.
- A resurfacing crew that will, in time, return.
Sourcing
2 public sources — news reports, RTI replies and civic archives — corroborate this entry. The citation trail is listed below for anyone who would like to follow up with the department concerned.
“The design was approved, the drawings were misplaced, the spirit endures.”— Blunderlust Editorial Desk
Sources
- https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2025/12/05/kollam-approach-road-service-collapse.html
- https://www.onmanorama.com/news/kerala/2025/12/06/nh-flyover-collapse-in-kollam-company-banned-for-one-month.html
Visitor reviews
“Came here after the beach plan fell through. You could set a watch by how little changes.”
“Went with my in-laws, who were surprisingly into it. The consultant's report reportedly recommended another consultant.”
“Turned off the main road on a hunch, and there it was. It is a triumph of allocation over construction.”