A Road to Progress
Tamil Nadu’s road infrastructure is poised for a significant upgrade with the addition of 963 km of four-lane national highways over the next two years. This ambitious project, undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) at an estimated cost of Rs. 20,000 crore, promises to transform travel experiences across the state. The expansion will boost the total length of four-lane national highways in Tamil Nadu from the current 2,735 km to an impressive 3,698 km, significantly improving connectivity and reducing travel times. This development is part of a larger effort to enhance the state’s 6,805 km national highway network, which includes various configurations from two-lane roads to eight-lane expressways.
Tamil Nadu’s NH Expansion: Key Highlights
Total NH Network in Tamil Nadu: 6,805 km
Existing Four-Lane Highways: 2,735 km
New Four-Lane Highways to be Added: 963 km
Total Four-Lane NHs after Completion: 3,698 km
Investment: ₹20,000 crore
Increase in Toll Plazas: From 72 to 90
Estimated Completion Timeline: 12-24 months
Major Road Projects Underway in Tamil Nadu
The ongoing highway expansion includes several key projects, many of which are already at an advanced stage:
1️⃣ Almost Completed (60-70% Progress) – Expected in 12-15 Months
Mamallapuram-Puducherry East Coast Road (ECR) – 106 km
Dindigul-Pollachi Highway – 131.9 km
Nagapattinam-Thanjavur NH – 65 km
Villupuram-Nagapattinam Highway – 125 km
Vikravandi-Thanjavur NH – 163 km
Gudipala-Sriperumbudur (Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway) – 106 km
2️⃣ Early Stage Projects (20-30% Progress)
Dindigul-Theni-Kumuli NH – 135 km
Neraluru-Thorapalli Agraharam-Jittandahalli NH – 60 km
These projects, once completed, will enhance intra-state travel and facilitate smoother long-distance commutes.
Progress on Key Stretches
Significant progress has been made on several crucial sections. The Dindigul-Pollachi stretch, for instance, is nearing completion, with toll plazas already operational at Chatrapatti and soon to open at Paraipatti and Gomangalam. The long-delayed Vikravandi-Thanjavur project is also back on track, with a portion already completed and the remainder expected within a year. Even the challenging Mamallapuram-Puducherry ECR, previously hampered by environmental concerns, has seen renewed momentum, with over 40 km completed and land acquisition progressing well.
Impact on Travel and Economy
The expansion of Tamil Nadu’s highways will lead to faster and safer commutes by reducing congestion and minimizing head-on collisions, significantly cutting travel times between key cities and towns. Additionally, the improved road network will provide a boost to business and logistics, facilitating trade and economic growth. Industries will benefit from enhanced freight movement, while the tourism and hospitality sectors will see increased accessibility, attracting more travelers and supporting local businesses.
Increase in Toll Revenue
From 2014 to 2024, Tamil Nadu’s toll plazas generated ₹26,000 crore in revenue. The top five toll plazas with the highest earnings include:
Thoppur L&T Toll (₹1,945 crore)
Krishnagiri Toll (₹1,636 crore)
Vikravandi Toll (₹1,290 crore)
Omalur Toll (₹1,040 crore)
Pallikonda Toll (₹1,002 crore)
Future Expansion
Tamil Nadu is undergoing a massive road infrastructure upgrade, with nearly 1,000 km of four-lane highways set to transform travel across the state. These projects will not only enhance connectivity but also boost economic growth, improve road safety, and make long-distance travel more convenient.
With 767 km of these roads set to become operational within the next 12-15 months, residents and businesses alike can expect a smoother, faster, and safer highway experience in the near future.