Get ready for a smoother, faster journey between Bengaluru and Chennai! The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced the imminent opening of a crucial 71-kilometer stretch of the Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway in Karnataka, scheduled for completion by the end of November 2024. This segment marks a significant milestone in the expressway’s construction, bringing us one step closer to a drastically reduced travel time between these two bustling cities.
Spanning a total of 260 kilometers, the expressway promises to revolutionize travel between Bengaluru and Chennai, significantly reducing the current seven-hour journey to an estimated three hours. While the Karnataka section faced a few hurdles, notably the relocation of a temple near Hoskote, construction has now accelerated, and according to NHAI’s Bengaluru Regional Officer, Vilas P. Brahmankar, the section is almost complete, with only a 400-meter segment remaining.
Once fully operational, this high-speed, four-lane expressway will connect three southern states – Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, enhancing connectivity, safety, and efficiency of travel. This ₹17,900 crore project, the first greenfield expressway in South India, is set to become a game-changer for commuters and businesses alike.
In Karnataka, the expressway’s construction is divided into three phases:
* Phase 1: 27.1 kilometers from Hoskote to Malur
* Phase 2: Malur to Bangarpet
* Phase 3: 17.5 kilometers from Bangarpet to Bethamangala
All these segments are scheduled to open by November 2024, contributing to the overall completion of the expressway. While the initial target for full completion was late 2024, various delays have pushed the timeline to late 2025. Nevertheless, the upcoming inauguration of the Karnataka stretch is a major achievement, bringing us closer to a faster, more efficient travel experience between Bengaluru and Chennai.
This development is sure to have a significant impact on the region, boosting economic growth and promoting tourism. With the opening of this crucial section, the dream of a seamless and swift journey between Bengaluru and Chennai is closer than ever.
