The Western Ring Road Project, spearheaded by the special projects wing of the State Highways Department, is progressing with Phase 1 works currently underway and nearing completion. The project spans three phases, beginning from Mylkal on the Salem-Cochin Road (SHU 52) and ending at Narasimhanaickenpalayam on the Nagapattinam-Gudalur-Mysore Road (NH67). Phase 1, covering a length of 11.80 km, includes areas such as Madukkarai, Sundakkamuthur, Perur Chettipalayam, Theethipalayam, and Madampatti. Launched in August 2023 with an investment of Rs 2.50 billion, Phase 1 is set to be completed by September this year.

Phase 2, with a length of 12.8 km from Madampatti to Somayampalayam near Vadavalli, is estimated to cost Rs 3.48 billion. Land acquisition for the second phase has been largely completed, with Rs 3.20 billion allocated for acquiring land across all three phases. The second phase will pass through Perur, West Chithirai Chavadi, Kallikanaicken Palayam, Vadavalli, and Somayampalayam.

The third phase, covering 8.09 km and passing through Pannimadai, Nanjundapuram, Kurudampalayam, Narasimhanaickenpalayam, and Gudalur, is set to be undertaken at an estimated cost of Rs 2.25 billion. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for this phase has been completed, and it will feature 24 bridges, flyovers, and two subways. Land acquisition for Phase 3 requires 36.41 hectare, including 34.30 hectare of private land, with an allocation of Rs 300 million for these works. Officials have already started land acquisition for this phase and aim to complete it by the end of this year.

News source: New Indian Express