In a bid to address the alarming frequency of accidents, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), under the auspices of the state transport department and Dharmapuri district administration, has embarked on a comprehensive initiative to rectify accident-prone areas, or ‘black spots’, along the Thoppur ghat road. Thoppur Ghat Road is a major road in India that connects Thoppur and Bangalore.
Over the past decade, Thoppur ghat has garnered notoriety as a perilous stretch dubbed a ‘death trap’ by motorists due to numerous fatalities. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, NHAI sanctioned a substantial sum of 775.41 crore on December 13, 2023, to realign and fortify the ghat section. Both state and central governments have collaborated to enhance safety measures along this crucial route.
Dharmapuri’s Regional Transport Officer (RTO), D. Damodharan, outlined plans for constructing a 6.6km elevated section as part of the safety enhancement initiative. He expressed confidence that NHAI would expedite the commencement of construction to mitigate risks and prevent further accidents. The proposed overhaul aims not only to bolster road safety infrastructure but also to alleviate longstanding concerns among commuters and residents alike. By addressing critical black spots and implementing advanced safety protocols, NHAI aims to transform Thoppur ghat into a safer and more secure passage for all road users.
This initiative underscores NHAI’s commitment to proactive infrastructure development and public safety, marking a significant stride towards mitigating road hazards and fostering sustainable travel across the region.
“With the necessary funding, NHAI and L&T have started the rectification work and aim to complete it within a few days,” Damodharan added.
