Revised Deadlines for Multi-Crore Highway Projects in Tamil Nadu
The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced revised deadlines for several large-scale road projects in Tamil Nadu, responding to delays caused by land acquisition issues, clearances, and unforeseen circumstances. These multi-crore projects are a part of the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and ease congestion in key regions of the state, but delays in their completion have been met with some frustration.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari provided the update in response to questions raised in the Lok Sabha by MPs Durai Vaiko and D. Malaiyarasan. He stated that a total of ₹33,085 crore had been allocated over the past five years towards the development and maintenance of national highways in Tamil Nadu. One of the most significant projects affected by delays is the Chennai Port-Maduravoyal elevated corridor, a major infrastructure initiative that aims to reduce congestion on one of Chennai’s busiest routes. Initially scheduled for completion by May 2026, the project’s timeline has now been extended to February 2027. The delay stems from a six-month wait to secure permission from the state water resources department for piling work. The project, which spans 21 km and is expected to cost ₹5,510 crore, has made only modest progress—between 1% and 3%—due to hurdles such as a National Green Tribunal (NGT) order halting work during the monsoon season and delays in securing traffic police permission for restrictions. The four-laning of the Mugaiyur to Marakkanam section, another key project, was sanctioned in 2019 and carries a budget of ₹1,835 crore. However, delays in land handover have pushed its completion to next year. Progress is slow, with the two packages involved currently at 28% and 41%, respectively.
Similarly, the Bangalore-Chennai expressway project, sanctioned in 2020, is facing delays due to a series of complications, including unseasonal rains, utility line shifting, and delays in land and crop compensation determination. These challenges have significantly hindered progress, despite the importance of the expressway in connecting two of India’s major cities. The Madurai Ring Road project is also experiencing setbacks. Phase I of the four-laning project, which began in 2020, has achieved only 68% progress. The ministry attributes the delay to multiple factors, including difficulties in obtaining forest clearance, poor resource mobilisation by contractors, the COVID-19 pandemic, and excessive rainfall. However, there is some positive news regarding the Thoppur ghat section improvement project, which is scheduled to begin soon. This ₹905 crore project involves the diversion of 13 hectares of forest land, with stage I clearance granted in December 2024. Work is expected to commence by February 2025, marking a significant step in improving the road network in Salem and Dharmapuri districts.
While these delays have sparked disappointment among local leaders, including Durai Vaiko, who expressed frustration over the lack of funds for announced projects and the slow pace of ongoing works, the government remains committed to completing these vital infrastructure projects. Gadkari noted that these developments are crucial for easing traffic congestion, improving connectivity, and fostering economic growth in the state. Local residents, such as S.S.M. Raja, a resident of Iyer Bungalow, have voiced concerns about the necessity of expanding roads in certain areas. While road widening is a part of many projects, some residents argue that installing roundabouts at key junctions might be a more efficient solution for easing congestion during peak hours. Despite these challenges, the government’s focus remains on completing these multi-crore projects and addressing the concerns of both commuters and local communities in Tamil Nadu. The revised deadlines serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in large-scale infrastructure development, with progress being contingent on multiple factors beyond financial investments.
