The construction of the Chennai-Bengaluru Expressway continues to make significant progress, with updates provided by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Jairam Gadkari. The six-laning work on the Sriperumbudur–Karaipettai section of NH-48, part of the Poonamalle–Walajahpet corridor, has faced challenges but is steadily advancing toward completion.
The project, originally awarded under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT)-Toll mode in 2012, faced delays due to default by the concessionaire, leading to termination of the agreement in 2016. The remaining work was reallocated into three separate packages. The 34 km stretch has completed 17.2 km, with the remaining 16.8 km awarded in November 2024 at a cost of ₹341.50 crore. Construction resumed on 27 January 2025, and 20% physical progress has been achieved so far. Scheduled completion is set for October 2026.
Phase-III: Bangalore–Chennai Expressway
Phase-III involves 106 km (94 km in Tamil Nadu and 12 km in Andhra Pradesh) constructed under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) in four packages. Initial challenges related to land acquisition, utility shifting, and regulatory clearances have been resolved. Currently, work is ongoing in three packages covering 80.2 km, with around 90% physical progress, expected to be completed by July 2026. Work in the remaining 25.5 km package halted in May 2025 due to financial issues; a new concessionaire is being sought.
Traffic and Safety Measures
During construction, traffic is being diverted through service and diversion roads. Fresh overlay work on service roads ensures smooth vehicle movement. All major crossroads are being equipped with Vehicular Underpasses (VUPs), Pedestrian Underpasses (PUPs), flyovers, and grade separators to enhance road safety. Black spot locations, prone to repeated accidents, are being provided with suitable crossing structures for pedestrians and vehicles.
Government Commitment
Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari assured that the existing roads are being maintained in traffic-worthy conditions. Continuous monitoring and targeted infrastructure improvements aim to complete the six-laning project efficiently. These developments align with the government’s broader vision to improve national highways and expressways, ensuring safer, faster, and more efficient travel between Chennai and Bengaluru.