By Kavita Mistry 
Driving between Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram is about to become dramatically faster. The ongoing NH-66 six-laning project, covering 644 km from Thalappady (Kasaragod) to Mukkola (Thiruvananthapuram), is set to cut travel time by more than half — from 6 hours to just 2.5 hours.
With an expected design speed of 100 kmph, the stretch will become one of Kerala’s fastest and most efficient corridors.
Key Highlights of the NH-66 Upgrade
- Total length being widened: 644 km
- Original completion date: December 31, 2025
- New anticipated completion: January 31, 2026
- Number of stretches: 22
- Stretches nearing completion: 4
- Overall progress: Over 60%
- Aroor–Thuravoor elevated highway progress: 65%
- Edappally–Moothakunnam stretch progress: 60%
What Makes the New NH-66 Faster?
According to NHAI officials, the stretch will have:
- No traffic signals or right turns from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram
- All U-turns and right turns rerouted through service roads and underpasses
- Exit ramps on elevated highways for better access
- Dedicated elevated highways, like the 12.75-km Aroor–Thuravoor section, built for uninterrupted high-speed flow
Toll Costs and Commuter Choices
While speed and convenience will improve, new toll booths are being introduced along the route:
- Kumbalam, Eramalloor (elevated highway), and Kalavoor in the Ernakulam–Alappuzha section
- Separate tolls will apply for elevated sections, though service roads remain a free alternative
- The 24-metre-wide Aroor–Thuravoor highway will cater specifically to fast-moving traffic
Fast-Tracking Kerala’s Road Future: Greenfield Highway from Palakkad to Kozhikode
In a parallel development, a 121-km greenfield highway connecting Palakkad to Kozhikode is in the pipeline under the Bharatmala project. Designed as a high-speed corridor, it aims to reduce travel time between the two cities to just 2 hours, significantly easing pressure on NH-966. Tendering for this project is expected to begin soon.
What This Means for Kerala’s Road Users
- Faster intercity travel with fewer bottlenecks
- Higher highway safety with limited access and no crossings
- Toll expenses may increase, but optional free service roads will remain
- Boost to tourism, trade, and logistics with better connectivity
The NH-66 project signals a paradigm shift in Kerala’s transport landscape. By early 2026, commuters can expect a seamless, high-speed experience connecting the northern and southern tips of the state.