The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has intervened in the delayed construction of the Edappally pedestrian underpass, ordering NHAI to resolve the crisis within two months.

  • NHAI mandated to finish the Marottichodu-Edappally underpass within 2 months.
  • SHRC initiated a suo motu case following reports of unusable pedestrian crossings.
  • Project Director and District Police Chief required to submit progress reports.

The Chairperson of the Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), Alexander Thomas, has issued a decisive order to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to expedite and complete the pedestrian underpass between Marottichodu and Edappally Market on NH 66. The Commission has set a strict deadline of two months for the completion of the project.

This legal intervention follows a suo motu case registered by the Commission after several news reports highlighted the plight of commuters. The reports indicated that the existing foot overbridge and designated pedestrian lines had become largely unusable due to the ongoing construction of an underpass near the upcoming flyover on the southern side of the Edappally Junction.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this case highlights a systemic failure in project management where temporary accessibility is sacrificed for long-term infrastructure. When NHAI removes existing pedestrian facilities before the new ones are operational, it creates a 'safety vacuum,' forcing citizens to risk their lives on high-speed corridors.

The right to safe passage is a fundamental aspect of urban living; infrastructure delays should not compromise human life.

The Commission also took cognizance of a formal complaint filed by Alumkal George, the convener of the Edappally-Thrikkakara NH Nadapatha Samrakshana Samithi. The committee has been vocal about the increasing dangers faced by pedestrians who are now forced to navigate through construction debris and heavy traffic.

Historically, the expansion of NH 66 in Kerala has been marred by delays due to land acquisition disputes and environmental clearances. Edappally, being a critical transit hub in Kochi, has suffered disproportionately from these delays, leading to chronic congestion and heightened accident risks.

Did You Know?: NH 66 is one of India's longest highways, stretching from Panvel in Maharashtra to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why did the SHRC intervene in a construction project?
A: The Commission intervened because the lack of safe pedestrian crossings was viewed as a violation of the basic right to safety and movement.

Q2: Who is accountable for the delay?
A: The NHAI project director and the District Police Chief have been asked to provide reports on the current status and delays.