The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Tiruchi’s semi-ring road project—which aims to connect five major national highways—is expected to be finalised by the end of August, said sources at the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
Prepared by a consultancy, the DPR is in its final stages and covers multiple components, including the widening of the existing two-lane Thuvakudi–Panjapur bypass into a four-lane stretch, and construction of a new four-lane bypass between Panjapur and Thindukarai on the Tiruchi–Karur National Highway. The plan also includes an elevated corridor near the newly operational integrated bus stand at Panjapur to streamline through-traffic.
Once complete, the nearly 45-km semi-ring road will connect highways leading to Thanjavur, Karaikudi, Madurai, Dindigul, and Karur. Designed as an access-controlled corridor, it will offer high-speed vehicular movement with regulated entry and exit points.
The Panjapur–Thindukarai stretch had faced delays for over a decade. Initially started 15 years ago, work was halted in 2010 after the Madras High Court directed that the alignment avoid affecting nearby irrigation tanks. A new alignment was later approved, causing significant delays.
With necessary changes incorporated in the DPR, NHAI is expected to float tenders for the project within this financial year, the sources added.
News source: The Hindu
