NHAI Unveils Road Projects For Tamil Nadu, Including Chennai-Tiruchirapalli Expressway
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has unveiled an expansive roadmap for new road projects spanning 6,747 kilometres across the nation. These projects, encompassing expressways, bypasses, and economic highways, aim to bolster the country's transportation infrastructure.
Tamil Nadu stands to benefit significantly from a couple of key initiatives during the second phase of these developments.
To finalise the project locations, NHAI enlisted advisors, who played a crucial role in reviewing and selecting viable locations for the upcoming road projects. Among the beneficiaries of this extensive plan is Tamil Nadu, which will witness the construction of expressways, flyovers, and bypasses.
While the specific locations and details are still in the planning phase, sources reveal that the projects in Tamil Nadu are part of NHAI's broader vision to enhance connectivity and reduce travel time within the state.
A notable proposal is the Chennai-Tiruchirapalli expressway, spanning 310 kilometres. If approved, this project is poised to transform the current six-hour journey between the two cities into a four-hour commute.
It's worth noting that Tamil Nadu's initial foray into expressways faced obstacles, particularly with the Chennai-Salem expressway. Local opposition, particularly from farmers during the land acquisition process, led to protests and a legal challenge, stalling the project's progress.
In addition to the Chennai-Tiruchirapalli expressway, NHAI is reportedly considering expanding the existing highway between Chennai and Tiruchirapalli from four lanes to eight lanes. Another expressway, covering a stretch of 160 kilometres between Pillayarpatti and Thoothukudi, is also in the planning stages.
A significant project in the pipeline is the transformation of the Chennai-Bengaluru highway into an expressway. The initial phase involves constructing a 23-kilometre flyover from Maduravoyal to Sriperumbudur, set to commence before the end of 2024.
The project, estimated at Rs 3,500 crores, is expected to be completed in the fiscal year 2024-2025. This expressway will feature six lanes, with additional bridges for entry and exit points.
The ambitious NHAI projects underscore the government's commitment to enhancing infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and streamlining transportation across the country. As the plans progress, attention will be keenly focused on the successful execution of these projects, ensuring they contribute positively to Tamil Nadu's connectivity and economic development.
