Chhattisgarh has marked a historic milestone with the completion of its first national highway tunnel along the Raipur-Vishakhapatnam economic corridor. The 2.79-kilometre tunnel, constructed in just 12 months, passes beneath the hills at the border of Kanker and Kondagaon districts, enhancing regional connectivity and trade potential across Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.
Officials confirmed that this left-hand tunnel will open to traffic by March-April 2026, with the parallel right-hand tunnel slated for completion by July-August 2026. The tunnel forms a critical component of the 464-km six-lane NH-130CD, a key infrastructure project expected to significantly reduce travel time, support industrial development, and facilitate the seamless movement of goods and passengers. By connecting remote districts with major economic hubs, the project underscores the importance of modern transport infrastructure in fostering equitable growth and regional integration. Experts from NHAI highlighted the engineering feat, noting that the rapid construction was achieved through advanced tunnelling techniques and efficient project management. The project also prioritises sustainability, with minimal environmental impact by tunnelling beneath the hills rather than altering the existing landscape. Officials emphasised that the design aligns with eco-friendly practices, supporting zero net carbon ambitions and promoting safer, gender-neutral, and equitable mobility along national highways.
“The tunnel not only strengthens economic links but also opens avenues for tourism, industrial expansion, and socio-economic integration in the state,” said senior officials. The infrastructure will provide faster, safer, and more efficient connectivity, reflecting the government’s focus on technologically advanced and sustainable transport corridors. The completion of Chhattisgarh’s first national highway tunnel aligns with broader national priorities of boosting inter-state trade corridors and facilitating regional economic growth. The Raipur-Vishakhapatnam corridor is strategically significant, connecting mineral-rich areas and industrial zones, thereby enhancing supply chain efficiency while reducing road congestion and carbon emissions.
With modern tunnel facilities, including advanced ventilation, lighting, and monitoring systems, commuters and freight operators are expected to experience improved travel safety and convenience. The twin-tube design will also allow uninterrupted traffic flow even during maintenance, supporting consistent economic activity and long-term regional development. Officials stressed that such infrastructure projects serve as a model for integrating economic growth with environmental stewardship and social equity. By combining cutting-edge engineering with sustainable practices, the project demonstrates the potential of national highways to transform regional economies while maintaining ecological balance.
The tunnel is a testament to Chhattisgarh’s commitment to building resilient, sustainable, and inclusive infrastructure that can drive growth for decades to come. With the completion of the right-hand tunnel later this year, the Raipur-Vishakhapatnam corridor will be fully operational, setting a benchmark for future projects in the region.
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