Centre Approves ₹1,338 Crore for Access-Controlled Highway in Tamil Nadu

The Central Government has approved ₹1,338 crore for the development of a 28-km access-controlled highway on NH-40 in Tamil Nadu. The project will connect Walajapet/Ranipet to the Tamil Nadu-Andhra Pradesh border, featuring a 4-lane main carriageway with paved shoulders and 2-lane service roads on both sides.

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced the project via social media, highlighting its key features, including a 10-km bypass for Walajapet/Ranipet, four major bridges, and two railway over-bridges. The corridor aims to improve connectivity between Chennai and major cities like Bengaluru, Tirupati, and Vellore, significantly enhancing regional transport efficiency.

This highway is expected to provide a significant boost to local industries in the region. Sectors such as leather and small-scale engineering units supporting Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) are anticipated to benefit from better transport infrastructure.

Additionally, the upcoming Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Ranipet, set for completion by 2025, is expected to drive substantial economic growth. The inclusion of 2-lane service roads on either side of the highway will ensure seamless local traffic movement while supporting the region’s industrial expansion.

This strategic infrastructure development aligns with the government’s vision of boosting regional connectivity and fostering economic opportunities, positioning Tamil Nadu as a pivotal hub in South India’s industrial and economic landscape.