Game changer for South India Reduced travel time: Bengaluru to Chennai in just 2.5 hours with the new Bangalore-Chennai Expressway

Traveling between Hoskote and Sriperumbudur is now a breeze with the 264-km Bengaluru-Chennai expressway.

Progress is being made in Karnataka with the construction of the highly anticipated Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway. This four-lane highway spans a distance of 262 kilometres and is projected to reach completion by March 2024. The implementation of this high-speed corridor, which traverses three states, is anticipated to significantly reduce the travel time between Bengaluru and Chennai to 2.5 hours.

The ongoing construction of this highway, which connects two capital states, represents one of the most significant infrastructure projects in South India. The route encompasses major cities such as Hoskote and Bangarpet in Karnataka, Palamaner and Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh, and Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu.

The construction of this highway is regarded as a momentous development in South India, as it establishes vital connections between major commercial hubs. This infrastructure project is poised to contribute significantly to the economic growth of multiple cities across different states.

Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway  - Key Highlights

• The four-lane access-controlled expressway traverses through the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, showcasing its extensive reach and regional connectivity.
• This particular highway is part of a series of 26 new green expressways currently being constructed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). These expressways are envisioned to incorporate sustainable and eco-friendly features, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship while enhancing the transportation infrastructure across the country.
• The total length of the highway is 262 kilometres, with 85 kilometres falling within Tamil Nadu, 71 kilometres within Andhra Pradesh, and 106 kilometres within Karnataka.
• According to the current plan, albeit with slow progress, the highway is anticipated to be accessible to the public by the conclusion of the upcoming year. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has undertaken a phased approach, dividing the project into three distinct construction phases.
• The project has been estimated to cost Rs 16,700 crore, and its foundation was ceremoniously laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May 2022.
• The establishment of the high-speed corridor holds promising potential to enhance the economic activities of not only the megacities but also the tier-3 cities situated along the highway. Additionally, it will serve as a crucial link connecting the industrial hubs in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh to the surrounding regions. This development is expected to drive significant economic growth and regional connectivity in the respective areas.
• The cities encompassed within this route comprise Hoskote, Malur, Bangarpet, Kolar Gold Fields (KGF) in Karnataka, Palamaner, Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh, and Ranipet in Tamil Nadu.
• In Chennai, the state government is strategically planning a corridor that will facilitate seamless connectivity to the Expressway. This corridor aims to link the Pallavaram flyover with the Chennai bypass (Perungalathur - Madhavaram) located at Tambaram. Furthermore, the government intends to enhance the road connectivity from the Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway and the East Coast Road to the GST road. These initiatives are aimed at optimizing transportation infrastructure in the region for improved efficiency and convenience.
• Currently, the average travel time by road between Chennai and Bengaluru stands at approximately five to six hours. However, with the introduction of the new expressway, the distance between Bengaluru and Chennai will be reduced from 300 kilometers to 262 kilometers, resulting in a significant reduction in travel time to approximately 2-3 hours. This development is set to greatly enhance the efficiency and convenience of commuting between these two major cities.
• The expressway has been specifically designed to accommodate a speed limit of 120 kmph, ensuring efficient and swift travel. To maintain optimal traffic flow and safety, it is important to note that slow-moving vehicles, bikes, and auto rickshaws will not be permitted on this corridor.