The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced the construction of a new Bengaluru-Mangaluru Expressway, aiming to connect two of Karnataka’s major cities via Hassan. This ambitious project is a joint effort between the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Karnataka Public Works Department.
Project Highlights
- Total Distance: 335 km
- Lanes: 4 to 6 lanes for smooth traffic flow
- Travel Time Reduction: Cuts travel time by 7 to 8 hours
- Route: Bengaluru → Hassan → Mangaluru
The expressway will improve transportation efficiency while enhancing economic activities in Karnataka.
What is the Construction Timeline of the Expressway?
| Project Phase | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Construction Start Date | 2028 |
| Expected Completion | Few months after 2028 |
| Project Status | Planning & Approval Stage |
Despite the massive scale, officials are optimistic about swift completion post-2028 commencement.
Why is the Bengaluru-Mangaluru Expressway Important?
Key Benefits:
Reduced Travel Time:
- Current journey takes 12-14 hours; the expressway will cut it down to 4-6 hours.
- Particularly beneficial for regular commuters and businesses.
Economic Growth:
- Facilitates faster transportation of goods between Bengaluru, Hassan, and Mangaluru ports.
- Boosts tourism and trade in Karnataka.
Decongestion:
- Reduces heavy traffic congestion in outer Bengaluru regions.
- Provides an alternative to the old, landslide-prone routes.
Safety Improvements:
- Modern road infrastructure with safety measures to prevent monsoon-related disruptions.
What is the Estimated Cost of the Expressway?
While the exact cost has not been officially disclosed, large-scale expressway projects of similar magnitude in India typically range between ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 crore.
Cost Influencing Factors:
- Land acquisition expenses
- Environmental clearances
- Construction of tunnels and flyovers in hilly areas
- Use of durable materials to withstand monsoon challenges
The expressway is expected to be a valuable investment considering its long-term economic benefits.
How Will the New Expressway Improve Travel Experience?
| Current Route Challenges | Expressway Benefits |
|---|---|
| Travel time of 12-14 hours | Travel reduced to 4-6 hours |
| Roads prone to landslides | Weather-resilient infrastructure |
| Monsoon-related disruptions common | Safer travel during all seasons |
| Frequent traffic congestion | Decongested, smooth travel |
| Poor road maintenance in hilly regions | Modern construction standards |
This expressway will be a game-changer for regular commuters and transport companies.
How Will the Project Boost Karnataka’s Economy?
Trade and Logistics:
- Faster transportation to and from Mangaluru Port, enhancing Karnataka’s export potential.
- Improved logistics for agricultural products from Hassan and surrounding districts.
Tourism Development:
- Easy access to Coorg, Chikkamagaluru, and coastal regions will attract more tourists.
Job Creation:
- Generates thousands of employment opportunities during construction and maintenance phases.
Regional Growth:
- Promotes infrastructure development in less-developed towns along the route.
By connecting Karnataka’s tech hub (Bengaluru) with its coastal economic center (Mangaluru), the project aims to drive holistic development.
What Challenges Does the Project Face?
- Land Acquisition: Ensuring fair compensation for landowners.
- Environmental Clearances: Navigating through forest regions and eco-sensitive zones.
- Monsoon Construction Delays: Effective planning required to prevent seasonal interruptions.
Proactive measures are in place to tackle these challenges efficiently.
FAQs
What is the total length of the Bengaluru-Mangaluru Expressway?
The expressway will cover a total distance of 335 km via Hassan.
When will the construction of the expressway begin?
Construction is slated to begin in 2028 with completion expected within the following months.
How much travel time will the new expressway save?
It will reduce travel time by 7 to 8 hours, cutting the journey to just 4-6 hours.
What is the primary purpose of the expressway?
The expressway aims to decongest traffic, boost economic activities, and improve travel safety between Bengaluru and Mangaluru.
Will the expressway help during the monsoon season?
Yes, it is being designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and prevent issues like landslides that affect the current route.
How will this project benefit Karnataka’s economy?
It will enhance trade, tourism, and logistics, creating job opportunities and improving regional connectivity.
Who is responsible for the construction of the expressway?
The project is being developed by NHAI in collaboration with the Karnataka Public Works Department.
Will tolls be implemented on the expressway?
While official details are pending, most expressways include toll collection for maintenance and operational costs.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.