The proposed greenfield highway project between Karur and Coimbatore is likely to face a delay of two years.
Due to increasing traffic congestion caused by a surge in vehicular movement on the existing highway, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had proposed the construction of a new road connecting Karur and Coimbatore a few years ago. Following the proposal, NHAI conducted multiple surveys to assess traffic volume and determine the alignment of the new route. However, despite being regularly discussed in NHAI meetings, the project made little progress.
Subsequently, a consultant was appointed by NHAI to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR). The consultant nearly completed the DPR after conducting several visits along the proposed corridor.
The project envisions a six-lane highway with service roads where necessary, running approximately five kilometres parallel to the existing highway. The alignment had already been designed.
The project had been completed, with around 900 hectares required for acquisition. The estimated cost of the project stands at Rs 35 billion. While it was initially anticipated that NHAI would approve the project in the latter half of 2024, the approval has been delayed as the authority has been slow in advancing the process.
News source: The Hindu Businessline
