Kochi: In a major move to boost road safety, two-wheelers will no longer be allowed on the six-lane main carriageways of National Highway 66 (NH66) in Kerala. Instead, riders will be required to use dedicated service roads—except while crossing bridges, where access to the main highway will still be permitted.
This restriction comes as part of the National Highways Authority of India’s (NHAI) large-scale modernization project, transforming NH66 into a six-lane expressway to ease congestion and reduce accidents along one of the state’s busiest corridors.
While authorities say the new rule will protect two-wheeler riders from high-speed traffic, concerns are growing over potential service road congestion. Commuters worry about space limitations, illegal parking, and heavy vehicles encroaching on these lanes.
The NHAI has promised strict enforcement and clear signage to prevent misuse, ensuring smooth flow on service roads. With key portions of NH66 expected to be completed by the end of 2025, this change marks a crucial step toward safer and smarter highways in Kerala.