Thrissur Collector warns of legal action against NHAI, contractors for safety lapses

District Collector Arjun Pandian has issued a stern warning that legal action will be taken against the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and contractors if any accident occurs on NH 544 due to failure in implementing adequate safety measures.

Collector made this statement at a District Road Safety Committee meeting here on Friday when the Motor Vehicles department (MVD) pointed out that construction works along the national highway were being carried out in violation of mandated safety protocols. The MVD noted out that despite repeated directives at earlier meetings no action had been taken to rectify the issues.

The Collector instructed officials to serve formal notices on both contractors and the NHAI, holding them accountable for any accident resulting from safety lapses during construction.

The meeting also addressed other key road safety concerns. Instructions have been given to remove all unauthorised boards, banners, and arches placed on roads.

Officials flagged the poor condition of several footpaths in the district, with many covered in overgrowth or damaged slabs. The Collector directed the authorities concerned to clear the vegetation, make footpaths walkable, and replace broken slabs.