The Coimbatore District Small Industries Association (CODISIA) has formally appealed to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to expedite the conversion of the existing two-lane Nilambur Bypass into a six-lane expressway equipped with service roads and flyovers at major intersections.
This 27-kilometre stretch of the Salem-Kochi Highway (NH 544) between Neelambur and Madukkarai has been a critical artery for both freight and passenger traffic. However, the central segment remains a two-lane road, creating a bottleneck that has led to numerous accidents and fatalities. In 2023 alone, 120 motorists lost their lives on this stretch, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure enhancement . CODISIA’s president highlighted that while both ends of the bypass are six-lane expressways, the central 27 km stretch remains inadequately equipped to handle the increasing traffic volume. The association has urged the Ministry to expedite the process of converting this segment into a six-lane expressway to improve safety and connectivity.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has recently taken over the project from Larsen & Toubro (L&T), which had been maintaining the road under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) agreement since 1999. The takeover is expected to facilitate the much-needed upgrades and align the bypass with modern traffic demands. Once completed, the upgraded bypass is poised to become a vital corridor connecting Coimbatore’s new airport terminal, container depot, railway goods shed, industrial areas, educational institutions, hospitals, IT parks, malls, entertainment spots, and residential areas. This development is anticipated to significantly enhance the region’s economic growth and improve the quality of life for its residents.
The association’s appeal aligns with broader efforts to modernize India’s infrastructure and ensure safer, more efficient transportation networks. As discussions continue, stakeholders remain hopeful that the Centre will prioritize this project to meet the growing demands of Coimbatore’s dynamic economy.
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