Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh – Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, alongside Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, laid the foundation stone and inaugurated 29 National Highway projects on August 2, 2025. Together, these projects cover a span of 272 km, backed by an investment exceeding ₹5,233 crore.
Building Roads, Fueling Growth
These highway projects are part of the Modi Government’s mission to boost infrastructure-led development across India. Shri Gadkari emphasized that the roads are designed to eliminate accident-prone black spots, decongest major cities, and improve last-mile connectivity in rural and tribal areas.
“These projects reflect the Prime Minister’s vision of inclusive growth,” said Gadkari, addressing the gathering of state ministers, MPs, MLAs, and local leaders in Mangalagiri.
Logistics Cost Slashed by Better Roads
Gadkari highlighted that India’s logistics costs have come down from 16% to 10% of GDP. With further infrastructure improvements, this is expected to drop to 9% by December 2025.
This fall in costs is likely to double exports and generate significant employment. It’s a clear indicator of how road infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh is becoming a growth engine for India.
NH-71: ₹1,994 Cr Transformation
The Madanapalle to Pileru section of NH-71 has been transformed into a modern four-lane corridor. This 56 km stretch includes:
- 9 flyovers
- 1 rail overbridge
- 19 major bridges
- 5 vehicular underpasses
- 10 local underpasses
Constructed at ₹1,994 crore, this route will ease travel, reduce accidents, and strengthen trade movement across the region.
NH-340C: Boosting Regional Access
The Kurnool to Mandlem stretch of NH-340C has been upgraded to a 4-lane road with paved shoulders over 31 km. Built at ₹858 crore, it features:
- 1 flyover
- 4 viaducts
- 3 local underpasses
- 1 minor underpass
Caption: NH-340C upgraded with flyovers, underpasses, and viaducts, enhancing travel from Kurnool to Mandlem.
Foundation Laid for 27 More Projects
Alongside these completed upgrades, foundation stones were laid for 27 additional National Highway projects. These aim to:
- Improve access to religious sites like Tirupati, Srisailam, and Kadiri
- Boost tourism at Horsley Hills and Vodarevu Beach
- Ensure seamless connectivity to Sri City, Krishnapatnam Port, and Tirupati Airport
This connectivity will reduce travel time, increase safety, and spur local economies across Andhra Pradesh.
120% Growth in Andhra’s NH Network
Since 2014, the length of National Highways in Andhra Pradesh under NHAI has increased by an astounding 120%—from 4,000 km to 8,700 km. This achievement reflects the government’s commitment to infrastructure-led development.
With better highways, Andhra Pradesh is now positioned as a key logistics corridor and economic hub in South India.
Voices from the Ground
Present at the event were Union Minister Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Deputy CM Shri Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma, Jana Sena chief and Deputy CM Shri Pawan Kalyan, and Union MoS Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani.
Chief Minister Naidu remarked, “This highway revolution will rewrite Andhra Pradesh’s future. It will connect our people, empower our farmers, and boost industries.”
Conclusion: Andhra’s Road to Progress
The ₹5,233 crore investment isn’t just about building roads. It’s about empowering communities. About linking villages to markets. About giving India’s exporters a faster route to global trade.
With strong leadership, strategic planning, and robust infrastructure, Andhra Pradesh’s highway network is paving the way for prosperity, safety, and national progress.
