The central government has sanctioned Rs 1,060.2 crore for the four-laning of a 7-kilometre stretch from Bhoma to Old Goa on National Highway 748 (NH-748).
This vital project aims to alleviate chronic traffic congestion and address the limited Right of Way in key areas such as Bhoma, Corlim, and Ella, enhancing both road safety and connectivity across the region. The expansion, as confirmed by a senior official from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, will transform NH-748 into a more efficient transport corridor, facilitating smoother movement of goods and passengers between Goa and southern states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. The project includes the construction of two elevated corridors spanning a total of 4.2 kilometres, complemented by 7-metre-wide service roads on both sides to manage the anticipated increase in vehicular flow effectively.
NH-748, previously known as NH 4-A, stretches 153 kilometres from NH 48 near Belagavi in Karnataka to NH 66 near Panaji in Goa. This highway is a critical lifeline for regional transport, connecting major towns such as Panaji and Ponda, and serving as a crucial link for interstate freight and passenger traffic. The four-laning of the Bhoma to Old Goa stretch is expected to bridge the gap between the existing four-lane segments from Khandepar to Ponda and the Ribandar bypass. This development will complete the Panaji-Khandepar corridor, significantly reducing travel time and enhancing access to important transport hubs like Dabolim Airport and Mormugao Port via NH 566 and NH 66. An expert in transport infrastructure highlighted the strategic importance of the project, noting, “Improved connectivity will not only ease daily commutes but also stimulate economic activities, attract investments, and support Goa’s burgeoning tourism sector.”
Despite the anticipated benefits, the project has encountered opposition from local residents in Bhoma, who are concerned about the environmental impact and the implications of land acquisition. The affected communities have approached the judiciary, seeking an alternative bypass route to mitigate displacement and ecological disruption. Urban development experts stress the importance of inclusive planning and stakeholder engagement in such large-scale infrastructure projects. “It’s crucial to strike a balance between development and community welfare. Sustainable urban planning should incorporate the voices of local populations to ensure long-term social and environmental sustainability,” noted a senior urban planning consultant.
In alignment with national sustainability goals, the project will incorporate green infrastructure features, including provisions for rooftop solar power on the elevated corridors. This initiative aims to reduce the carbon footprint and promote energy efficiency in the construction and operational phases. An official from the Ministry of Environment and Forests emphasized the government’s commitment to sustainable development: “We are ensuring that this project adheres to eco-friendly practices, minimises ecological disruption, and promotes green technologies wherever possible.” The expansion is expected to lead to a significant reduction in traffic-related accidents, thanks to improved road design, wider lanes, and enhanced traffic management systems. Additionally, the upgraded highway will support the growth of ancillary industries, including logistics, hospitality, and retail, by facilitating faster and safer transportation of goods and services. Business and logistics experts predict that the improved infrastructure will reduce transportation costs, enhance supply chain efficiency, and boost competitiveness for businesses operating in the region.
The central government has been actively investing in road infrastructure projects nationwide, with a focus on enhancing connectivity, safety, and sustainability. The Bhoma to Old Goa highway expansion is part of this broader vision, reflecting a commitment to modernising India’s transport network to support economic growth and environmental stewardship. A senior official from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways stated, “This project is a testament to our commitment to creating world-class infrastructure that meets the needs of a growing economy while promoting sustainable development.”
As the project progresses, authorities are expected to continue engaging with local communities, environmental stakeholders, and industry representatives to ensure that it meets both infrastructural and socio-environmental objectives
Centre Sanctions Rs 1060 Crore for Bhoma to Old Goa Highway Expansion
