Youth Congress stages symbolic protest over NH 66 safety concerns in Kerala

Youth Congress activists staged a symbolic coffin march in Kerala on Wednesday to draw attention to the mounting accident crisis on National Highway 66, which has witnessed a surge in fatal and serious incidents in recent months.

The protest underscored growing public concern over inadequate safety infrastructure on the heavily trafficked route, which serves as a vital commercial and passenger corridor connecting multiple states. Participants called for immediate action from highway authorities and the central government to implement stricter safety protocols, better road maintenance, and enhanced emergency response systems.

Accidents on NH 66 have become increasingly frequent, with daily incidents reported across various stretches in Kerala. Safety advocates have attributed the high accident rate to poor road conditions, insufficient warning signage, inadequate street lighting, and rash driving by commercial vehicles navigating the corridor.

The Youth Congress demanded that authorities conduct a comprehensive safety audit of the highway and present a concrete timeline for remedial measures. The party also called for enhanced police patrolling and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to curb dangerous driving practices.

Highway safety remains a critical concern in India, with national highways accounting for a disproportionate share of road fatalities. The demonstration reflects broader demands from civil society for urgent infrastructure improvements and stricter accountability mechanisms to prevent further loss of life on key transportation routes.