Chennai, Bengaluru, and Vellore to Benefit from Rs 1,338 Crore Highway Project
South India, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari recently announced the approval of a Rs 1,338 crore project for a 28-km access-controlled highway in Tamil Nadu. This project, designed to enhance the road infrastructure along NH-40, will connect Walajapet/Ranipet to the Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh border, facilitating smoother travel between major cities such as Chennai, Bengaluru, and Vellore.
The new highway will feature a four-lane main carriageway with paved shoulders and two-lane service roads on both sides, aimed at improving traffic flow for both long-distance travelers and local commuters. This design ensures that while the highway caters to those traveling between cities, it also addresses the needs of the local population, enabling efficient movement of goods and services. One of the project’s most significant features is the construction of a 10-kilometer bypass around Walajapet and Ranipet, areas known for heavy traffic congestion. This bypass is expected to significantly reduce traffic in these towns, improving safety and reducing travel time. Additionally, the construction of four major bridges and two railway over-bridges will further enhance the safety and efficiency of the route.
The highway’s impact on Vellore is particularly noteworthy, as the city is home to the renowned Christian Medical College (CMC), a major medical institution attracting patients and professionals from across the country and beyond. The improved connectivity will make it easier for patients and visitors to access the hospital, while also facilitating the travel of medical professionals, thus supporting the healthcare sector in the region. Moreover, the project is expected to have a profound impact on the local economy, especially in Walajapet and Ranipet, which are hubs for the leather industry and small-scale engineering units that supply components to major companies like Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). By improving road infrastructure, the highway will encourage new investments, promote industrial growth, and boost trade and tourism, creating new opportunities for local businesses and industries.
Overall, the Rs 1,338 crore highway project represents a major step forward in improving the transportation infrastructure of Tamil Nadu, offering enhanced connectivity for both local and long-distance travelers. It is set to bring lasting benefits to the region by fostering economic growth, enhancing healthcare accessibility, and improving the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
