NHAI Initiates Repair of Retaining Wall at Kaduvetti Underpass

Swift Summary

• The National highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to start rectification work on a damaged portion of the retaining wall near Kaduvetti, Meensuritti, along the Cholapuram-Sethiyathope National Highway section.
• A collapse occured in facia panels on one side of a vehicular underpass (VUP), affecting about 10 meters and causing cracks on the road surface. Recent rains may have played a role in this damage.
• One carriageway has been closed temporarily, with traffic diverted to service lanes on one side; the other carriageway remains open for vehicles.
• NHAI experts from IIT Madras and NIT tiruchi have inspected the site to assess cause and reccommend solutions; repairs are expected to take approximately one month.
• The damaged section is part of the newly completed four-lane Vikravandi-Thanjavur National Highway, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to tamil Nadu. Final work between Sethiyathope and Vikravandi is still ongoing.

Indian Opinion analysis

The incident reflects challenges associated with infrastructure durability in regions prone to heavy rainfall, as evidenced by recent weather conditions leading up to structural failure at Kaduvetti underpass. While immediate repair plans indicate swift action from NHAI-bolstered by expertise from premier institutions-the closure affects commuting efficiency, highlighting how vulnerable transportation lifelines can impact mobility and logistics temporarily.

Engineering durability remains crucial for long-term project credibility in India’s growing highway network-a major driver for economic activity across states like Tamil Nadu. Localized damage here underscores the importance of stringent quality checks across all stages-from planning through construction-for ensuring reliability against environmental stressors such as rain-induced erosion or foundation weakening within newer four-lane corridors.Read more: Published – August 04, 2025 05:58 pm IST