NHAI opens two under-construction bridges on Bengaluru–Chennai Highway in Ranipet to ease traffic congestion

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has opened two under-construction bridges on the Bengaluru–Chennai Highway (NH 48) in Ranipet district to ease traffic congestion caused by heavy rains. The move follows severe damage to the service lane, which had become unsafe for motorists, especially during night hours.

The newly opened bridges are located near the SSS College of Arts, Science and Management in Arcot town and the new campus of the Christian Medical College (CMC) at Puttuthakku village near Melvisharam. Both locations are known accident-prone zones, commonly referred to as “black spots.” The decision to open the bridges, even before full completion, was made after continuous rainfall left the six-metre-wide service lane filled with potholes and waterlogging, severely affecting traffic flow towards Bengaluru.

Each bridge has been built at an estimated cost of ₹22 crore. Designed as elevated sections of the highway, these structures also include underpasses to allow safe pedestrian and local vehicle movement. According to NHAI officials, over 80% of the bridge work has been completed, including the initial bitumen layer. Remaining works such as strengthening of the retaining wall, laying of the final bitumen surface, and installation of streetlights are expected to be completed by December.

Authorities said the initiative came after Ranipet District Collector J. U. Chandrakala directed the NHAI to open the bridges temporarily to restore smooth vehicular movement. The stretch had seen traffic bottlenecks due to damaged lanes, posing risks to ambulances, school vehicles, and daily commuters.

Motorists have welcomed the move, calling it a much-needed relief for regular travellers on this busy corridor connecting Tamil Nadu’s industrial regions with Bengaluru. Once completed, the bridges will enhance safety, improve connectivity, and ensure smoother traffic flow along one of South India’s most vital highways.