NHAI Confirms Bridge Pier Subsidence on NH 66 in Kochi, Expert Team to Investigate
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has officially confirmed the subsidence of a pier on the Moothakunnam-Kottappuram bridge located on National Highway 66 in the Kochi region. This development has raised significant concerns regarding structural safety and maintenance protocols along this crucial transportation corridor.
Details of the Subsidence Incident
In a formal communication addressed to Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden, NHAI Project Director P. Pradeep disclosed that an independent engineer, appointed specifically to examine the issue, observed an approximate settlement of 500 millimeters at pier P2 during a recent site inspection. The discovery was made as part of a routine assessment, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in the bridge's infrastructure.
Immediate Response and Technical Investigation
In response to the findings, NHAI has announced that a specialized bridge expert team will soon conduct a detailed technical inspection. The primary objectives of this investigation are:
- To identify the underlying factors causing the pier subsidence.
- To recommend necessary remedial and strengthening measures to ensure long-term stability.
This expert team has been appointed by the project concessionaire—a private entity that entered into a long-term contract with NHAI to design, construct, operate, and maintain the highway project under the hybrid annuity model.
Contractual Responsibilities and Financial Accountability
NHAI has clarified that all inspection and follow-up work will be carried out at the concessionaire's own cost and responsibility. According to the terms of the contract, the concessionaire bears full responsibility for the design, construction, maintenance, and structural safety of the bridge and its associated components for a period of 15 years. This contractual framework places the onus on the private partner to address any defects or issues arising during this tenure.
Escalation to Higher Authorities and Ongoing Monitoring
MP Hibi Eden emphasized the technical importance and seriousness of the issue, prompting NHAI to forward his petition to its Delhi headquarters. The authority is currently examining the possibility of appointing independent experts to assess the findings if deemed necessary. NHAI officials have assured that they are closely monitoring the situation and have issued strict instructions to the concessionaire to implement all necessary safety, precautionary, and corrective measures in compliance with existing standards and technical requirements.
Parallel Development: Highway Renovation Approval
In a related development, an empowered committee under NHAI has approved Rs 11.59 crore for the renovation of the existing NH 66 stretch from Moothakunnam to Edappally. This funding has been sanctioned as a one-time maintenance measure to enhance the highway's condition. The amount will be transferred to the account of the chief engineer of the NH division of the state Public Works Department (PWD), which will supervise the renovation works.
The renovation project will be executed in accordance with the norms of the Central Surface Transport Department and state PWD rules, ensuring adherence to national and regional standards for infrastructure development.
The confirmation of pier subsidence on NH 66 underscores the critical need for rigorous infrastructure monitoring and timely interventions. As NHAI and its concessionaire collaborate to address the issue, the focus remains on safeguarding public safety and maintaining the integrity of vital national highway networks.
