₹102.83 Crore Outer Ring Road Project Begins Near Katpadi to Ease Traffic in Vellore

The Tamil Nadu State Highways Department has officially commenced work on a new outer ring road project near Katpadi in Vellore district. The project, estimated at ₹102.83 crore, is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion in and around the busy Katpadi area, particularly near the railway station and key urban stretches.

The foundation stone for the project was laid at Periyathur village on Thursday by Vellore District Collector V.R. Subbulaxmi in the presence of Vellore Member of Parliament D.M. Kathir Anand. The project marks the first outer ring road initiative in the district and is aimed at improving traffic flow and road connectivity across several surrounding towns and villages.

The proposed outer ring road will stretch for approximately 7.4 kilometres and is designed to divert heavy vehicles such as trucks, goods carriers and container lorries away from the congested Katpadi town roads. Currently, these vehicles pass through the narrow Katpadi Main Road to reach destinations including Chittoor, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Salem, Ranipet, Kancheepuram and Tiruvannamalai. Traffic data indicates that more than 17,000 vehicles use the Katpadi Main Road every day, leading to severe congestion and safety concerns for motorists and pedestrians.

Officials from the State Highways Department stated that the new road will provide an alternative route connecting key towns such as Ranipet, Arcot, Sholinghur, Kancheepuram and Tiruvannamalai. In addition to easing traffic pressure, the project will improve connectivity for nearly 20 nearby farming villages including Kal Pudur, Dharapadavedu, Karikiri, Kandimedu, Arumparuthi, Karnampattu, Arambakkam and Perumugai.

The outer ring road is being developed under the Comprehensive Road Infrastructure Development Programme for 2025 to 2026. The road will be constructed as a two lane corridor with a width of at least 10 metres. Unlike typical urban roads, the project will include earthen stormwater drains to optimise road space while managing water flow.

Residents of the region have welcomed the project, noting that frequent traffic congestion has often delayed school buses and ambulances. Authorities expect the project to enhance road safety and improve regional mobility. According to officials, construction of the outer ring road is scheduled to be completed by 2027.