• Source:JND
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Bengaluru-Mangaluru high-speed expressway project, announced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) will cut travel time for commuters by 7-8 hours, making it a game-changer for transportation in the state. Currently, the journey between these two cities can be time-consuming, especially during the monsoon season when the existing route is prone to landslides and other disruptions. The ambitious project will likely improve connectivity between Karnataka’s southern and coastal regions, as per a report.

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Project Timeline and Development Plans

In July, the ministry sought bids to select a consultant for a detailed project report (DPR). By November, nine firms had submitted their technical bids. The government plans to award the contract next year, with the selected firm given 540 days to complete the DPR. The construction of the expressway is slated to begin by 2028. The project will be a collaborative effort between Karnataka’s Public Works Department (PWD) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), focusing on alignment and land acquisition.

Improved Transport Infrastructure

The new expressway is expected to have four to six lanes and will pass through Hassan, further enhancing the region's transport infrastructure. The improved route will ease congestion, reduce travel times, and provide a safer, more efficient link between Karnataka’s major cities. Once completed, this high-speed corridor is set to transform the travel experience, boosting economic growth and connectivity across the state.

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Currently, NH-75, the main Bengaluru-Mangaluru route, faces frequent landslide closures, especially during rains. Though parts of the highway are six-lane, segments narrow significantly. NHAI is upgrading the Hassan-Sakleshpur-Maranahalli stretch, with four-laning set for completion by June 2025. Additionally, the Shiradi Ghat bottleneck may be eased through a hybrid solution of flyovers and tunnels, with its DPR underway and tenders expected next year.

Mangaluru’s isolation hampers the development of the port, tourism and other sectors in the city, however, after the construction of this highway things are expected to change for the better.