NHAI’s Thirumangalam-Vadugapatti Four-Laning Project Set for Completion by December 2025

The National Highways Authority of India, Madurai region, is progressing steadily on the four-laning of the 36-kilometer stretch between Thirumangalam and Vadugapatti. This section forms a crucial part of the Madurai-Kollam greenfield National Highway 744. The project, valued at approximately Rs 554 crore, was launched in March 2023 with the aim of improving road safety, reducing travel time, and facilitating smoother movement of goods.

The upgraded highway will include sixteen vehicular underpasses and pedestrian subways at accident-prone areas such as Aalampatti and M. Subbulapuram. These safety measures are designed to reduce road accidents and ensure safer commuting for both motorists and pedestrians. The four-lane road begins at T. Pudupatti bypass in Thirumangalam and passes through key areas including Kalupatti and Kunathur, covering twelve kilometers from Thirumangalam.

Originally, the project was scheduled for completion in February 2025. However, challenges such as land acquisition delays and local protests caused a slight shift in the timeline, with the current expected completion now set for December 2025. Despite these challenges, the NHAI has emphasized that work is on track and that the infrastructure upgrade will significantly enhance connectivity in the region.

Stakeholders have highlighted the importance of proper lighting along the highway and adequate truck parking facilities to support commercial traffic. The NHAI is reportedly incorporating these features into the project plan to ensure that the road is not only efficient but also convenient for all types of commuters.

Once completed, this four-lane corridor will play a pivotal role in boosting trade and logistics between Madurai and the Kollam region. It will also provide commuters with a safer and faster travel option, making the highway a critical infrastructure asset for South India. The project underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing national highways and enhancing regional connectivity, ensuring long-term economic and social benefits for local communities.