Villupuram-Nagapattinam ECR Expansion to Be Completed by October 2025

Good news for motorists and long-distance travelers! For the longest time in waiting, the widening of East Coast Road (ECR) is said to be fully completed by October 2025. This major infrastructure upgrade, undertaken under the Bharatmala Pariyojana Scheme, is believed to boost connectivity and cut down travel time along the crucial stretch of National Highway 32 (NH-45A).

With the four-lane expansion completed up to Sattanathapuram, travelers are already experiencing significant improvements. A frequent commuter from Chidambaram, who often travels to Puducherry and Kumbakonam, shared that the new road has drastically cut travel time. “Now, reaching Cuddalore takes just 30 minutes, and Villupuram is just 1.5 hours away. This has made travel much smoother for the public,” she said.

Another traveler who recently drove to Kumbakonam praised the new road for its comfort and ease of travel. He pointed out that the old ECR was narrow, with dangerous curves, making driving risky. However, he raised concerns about the lack of streetlights on bridges and the presence of two-wheelers moving in the wrong direction, which pose safety risks. He also suggested that adding eateries and parking spaces along the highway would benefit families on long journeys.

Officials from National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) assured of intensified highway patrolling and even attempted to spread the word about improving the safety features for motorists along roads. Also, they added that underpass provisions have already been made there and streetlights installation is undertaken at critical sections.

The four-laning project is divided into four contract packages:

• Package 1: Villupuram to Puducherry (29 km) – ₹1,013 crore
• Package 2: Puducherry to Poondiyankuppam (38 km) – ₹1,228 crore
• Package 3: Poondiyankuppam to Sattanathapuram (56.8 km) – ₹2,120 crore (Completed)
• Package 4: Sattanathapuram to Nagapattinam (55.75 km) – ₹1,905 crore (31 km completed)

This stretch of NH-32, located 5-10 km from the coast, is home to abundant mangroves, making environmental considerations crucial. With minor works remaining on the first two packages and ongoing efforts on the final stretch, the entire project is on track to be finished by October 2025, promising a safer and more efficient travel experience for all.