Traffic has been diverted and toll collection suspended after a major carriageway settlement was reported on the four-lane Poondiyankuppam (Km 67)-Sattanathapuram (Km 123.8) stretch of NH-32 in Tamil Nadu on 6 April 2026, according to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
As per the ministry, the incident occurred on the right-hand side (RHS) carriageway at Vallampadugai village in Cuddalore district, near the reinforced soil wall approach of a light vehicular underpass at Km 105.2 on the Kollidam bypass.
The stretch has been operational since March 2024.
The ministry said that the routine inspections of the stretch on 20 and 21 March, 2026 did not reveal any cracks or bulging in the RS Wall structure.
“However, on 04th April, 2026, the Concessionaire observed cracks in the Pavement Quality Concrete (PQC) along with a settlement of approximately 100 mm over a stretch of about 30 meters on the Right Hand Side (RHS) of the main carriageway,” the ministry said.
The ministry added that immediate rectification measures were initiated on the following day, including replacement of affected concrete pavement panels.
“During the rectification work, another settlement of one metre length was noticed at around 12:30 AM on 06th April, 2026,” it added.
The site was inspected by the NHAI Project Director at around 2:30 AM the same day.
Subsequent inspection revealed bulging, cracking and horizontal displacement of reinforced soil wall blocks over an approximate length of 50 metres.
Displacement of the wing wall of an existing box culvert was also observed.
“At present, the settlement of the RHS carriageway is assessed to be approximately 2.5 metres, with horizontal movement still developing. The heaving and cracking of adjoining ground is also observed,” the ministry said.
To ensure public safety, traffic on the affected stretch has been completely diverted, according to the ministry.
Collection of user fee at Kothattai Fee Plaza has also been suspended with effect from 12:50 PM on 6 April 2026, it added.
“NHAI is closely monitoring the situation, experts have reached the site and detailed technical investigations are being undertaken,” the ministry said.
According to the ministry, the root cause of the settlement appears to be foundation failure (poor bearing capacity).
Based on expert evaluation, appropriate remedial measures will be implemented on priority to restore normal traffic operations at the earliest, according to the ministry.
A show cause notice has been issued to the concessionaire and the independent engineer, the ministry said.
