Vadodara, Rajkot Metro Plans Sent to Union Govt for Approval.

The Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation (GMRC) Ltd has taken a significant step towards expanding metro connectivity in the state by submitting Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for metro rail projects in Vadodara and Rajkot to the Union government for final approval. In addition to these new city projects, GMRC has also presented plans for the extension of the existing Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar Metro Rail service within GIFT City and a new route connecting Koteshwar to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad.

Officials from GMRC have confirmed that all four projects have received the green light from the Gujarat state government and have now been forwarded to the central government for final clearance and funding. “DPR for metro rail services for the municipal corporations of Vadodara and Rajkot, along with the expansion of the Ahmedabad metro rail, have been sent to the Union govt. The Gujarat govt is expecting the Union govt to bear 50% of the cost of these projects. Once the Centre sanctions the funds, the state govt will begin work on the projects, as the DPR for all four have already been prepared,” stated a GMRC official.

The proposed metro rail project for Vadodara spans approximately 40 kilometers and is estimated to cost Rs.11,000 crore. The envisioned network aims to connect key areas including industrial zones, prominent commercial centers like Alkapuri and Akota, and the Vadodara airport. Another crucial section will link the old city area to the GSFC industrial area via the railway station, enhancing connectivity for both commuters and industries.

Rajkot’s metro rail project, estimated at Rs.10,000 crore, will cover a distance of around 38 kilometers. The proposed network is designed to serve the rapidly developing areas of the city while also providing essential connectivity to the railway station and busy city centers, catering to the transportation needs of a growing urban population.

Both the Rajkot and Vadodara metro systems will feature two distinct lines each, with the majority of the routes planned as elevated corridors, incorporating some underground sections in strategic areas. The submission of these comprehensive DPRs marks a crucial stage in realizing the vision of enhanced urban mobility in these key Gujarati cities and further expansion of the existing metro network in the Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar region. The state government now awaits the Union government’s sanction of funds to commence work on these ambitious projects.

Poonamallee to Porur: Chennai Metro Tests Driverless Technology on New 10-km Section.

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has commenced crucial testing and trial runs on a 10-kilometer stretch of Corridor 4 in its Phase-2 project. The section extends from Poonamalle Bypass Metro Station, beyond Mullai Thottam Metro Station, and culminates at Porur Junction Metro Station, according to an official release issued recently.

While the trials involve driverless train sets, sources indicate that the trains are currently being operated with drivers onboard for the testing phase. This initial stage allows CMRL to meticulously evaluate the performance and safety of the new rolling stock and the track infrastructure.

The newly tested section is strategically linked with the Poonamalle Metro Depot, which will serve as the central coordination hub for all testing and commissioning activities during this phase. CMRL has outlined a progressive approach to these trials, indicating that various rigorous tests will be conducted in Stage 1. These tests are essential to ensure the highest levels of safety and passenger comfort before the line becomes operational for public use.

This significant step marks tangible progress in the Phase-2 expansion of the Chennai Metro network, bringing the prospect of enhanced connectivity to the western parts of the city closer to realization. The focus on thorough testing, even with the advanced driverless technology, underscores CMRL’s commitment to a safe and reliable public transportation system for Chennai’s commuters.

Maha Govt Sets Sights on $50 Billion Investment to Transform Infrastructure.

The Maharashtra government has unveiled ambitious plans to raise a substantial $50 billion within the next three to four months. This significant financial infusion is earmarked for large-scale infrastructure and development projects across the state, aiming to build upon previous investments and accelerate growth.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis highlighted the state’s track record in infrastructure development during the period between 2014 and 2019, during which approximately $30 billion was invested. Landmark projects such as the Coastal Road, Atal Setu, Samruddhi Highway, and the Navi Mumbai International Airport were key beneficiaries of this investment.

Speaking at the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor summit organized by Vishwamitra Research Foundation on Monday, Fadnavis stated, “We are in talks with Indian financial institutions and foreign investors to raise $50 billion in the next 3–4 months.” This proactive engagement with both domestic and international financial entities underscores the government’s commitment to securing the necessary capital for its ambitious infrastructure agenda.

The planned $50 billion investment is expected to further propel Maharashtra’s infrastructure landscape, potentially leading to the development of new transportation networks, industrial corridors, and urban development initiatives. This significant financial mobilization signals the state’s determination to enhance connectivity, boost economic activity, and improve the overall quality of life for its citizens.

Rs.13,500 Crore Rail and Infrastructure Projects Launched by PM Modi in Bihar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for projects worth approximately Rs.13,500 crore in Madhubani, Bihar, recently, coinciding with the celebration of National Panchayati Raj Day. The extensive development package encompasses railway infrastructure, an LPG bottling plant, power sector initiatives, and the distribution of benefits under various government schemes, as reported by PTI.

A highlight of the event was the flagging off of four new train services, significantly enhancing connectivity within Bihar and beyond. These include the Amrit Bharat Express connecting Saharsa and Mumbai, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail between Jaynagar and Patna, and local train services between Pipra and Saharsa, and Saharsa and Samastipur.

In addition to the new trains, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Supaul Pipra rail line, the Hasanpur Bithan Rail line, and two-lane rail over bridges at Chapra and Bagaha. He also dedicated the Khagaria-Alauli Rail line to the nation, bolstering railway connectivity across the state.

A significant infrastructure project launched was the laying of the foundation stone for an LPG bottling plant with rail unloading facility at Hathua in Gopalganj District, valued at approximately Rs.340 crore. This facility is expected to streamline the LPG supply chain and improve the efficiency of bulk transportation.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for additional projects worth over Rs.1,170 crore and inaugurated multiple power sector projects in Bihar, valued at over Rs.5,030 crore, under the revamped distribution sector scheme.

The event also saw the distribution of significant benefits under various government schemes. Approximately Rs.930 crore was distributed under the community investment fund to over 2 lakh Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from Bihar, under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).

Furthermore, sanction letters were handed over to 15 lakh new beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-Gramin), and installments were released to 10 lakh PMAY-G beneficiaries nationwide. Keys were also handed over to beneficiaries, marking the “Grih Pravesh” (housewarming) of 1 lakh PMAY-G and 54,000 PMAY-Urban (PMAY-U) houses in Bihar.

This comprehensive development package launched by Prime Minister Modi is expected to significantly boost infrastructure and improve the lives of citizens in Bihar, marking a major push for progress in the state.

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Gets Nod for Balagarh Barge Terminal.

The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority (SMPK), formerly known as the Kolkata Port Authority, has received the green light from the government to develop a significant barge terminal at Balagarh island, approximately 85 kilometers upstream from Kolkata. This strategic move aims to alleviate traffic congestion on Kolkata city roads by shifting a portion of the cargo currently handled at the Kolkata Dock System (KDS).

The upcoming barge terminal at Balagarh is designed to handle a substantial 2.7 million tonnes of cargo annually, comprising 150,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containerized goods (1.9 million tonnes) and 0.8 million tonnes of dry bulk cargo, including essential commodities like coal, pulses, peas, and fertilizers. The navigational channel connecting KDS to Balagarh boasts a 3-meter draft, enabling the docking of flat-bottomed, wide barges with a capacity of up to 3,000 dead weight tonnes (dwt).

Government sources indicate that SMPK is likely to float the tender for this ambitious project in May. The Balagarh Island offers a considerable land area of around 900 acres, with the port authority possessing approximately 308.75 acres. The terminal itself will be developed on a 100-acre plot.

The Kolkata Dock System (KDS), consisting of the Netaji Subhas dock, Khidderpore dock, and Budge Budge liquid jetties, will see Balagarh function as an extended gateway, providing an additional 300 acres of storage space to cater to the cargo destined for the northern hinterland.

Strategically located on National Waterway 1 (NW1), which connects Haldia and Allahabad, the project will be implemented through a two-pronged approach. The basic infrastructure, including road connectivity, the construction of a road overbridge across a railway line, ground improvement, and the dredging of the approach channel and turning circle, will be undertaken by the port authority using the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) mode. The terminal itself will be constructed in two phases with private sector investment through a public-private partnership (PPP) model.

The total estimated cost of the project is Rs.499.80 crore (or Rs.538.20 crore including the road overbridge). Of this, SMPK’s EPC component, amounting to Rs.92.60 crore (or Rs.131 crore with the RoB), will be partially funded by the Jal Marg Vikas Project of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The private investor will be responsible for an investment of Rs.407.20 crore to construct the berths, install cargo handling equipment, develop the cargo storage area, build onshore infrastructure, and dredge the berth pocket. The project has already secured the necessary environmental clearances.

According to government sources, SMPK intends to shift a portion of its operations to Balagarh to cater to the projected increase in container and general cargo traffic and to overcome the logistical challenges posed by restricted cargo movement within Kolkata city, where truck turnaround times can be as long as three days.

The development of the Balagarh terminal is expected to significantly benefit regions in North Bengal, Asansol, Durgapur, Birat Nagar – Jogbani (Nepal), East Bihar, and the northeastern states by offering shorter distances and improved service levels, leading to reduced logistics costs and enhanced competitiveness for industries in these areas.

Furthermore, the terminal can potentially serve as an extended gateway for other ports in the region, including Haldia and future developments, facilitating better connections to IWAI terminals on NW-I.

Estimates suggest that out of the 5.4 lakh TEUs currently handled at the Kolkata Dock System, approximately 4.9 lakh TEUs (90 percent) originate from the four eastern states, and a significant portion of this traffic is expected to shift to Balagarh. Similarly, a considerable percentage of SMPK’s West Bengal and northeastern states-bound peas and pulses cargo, Nepal-bound fertilizer cargo, and coal and coke cargo destined for steel plants in Bokaro, Durgapur, and Burnpur have the potential to be handled at the more proximate Balagarh terminal.

The tender for the project will be awarded to the bidder quoting the highest aggregate royalty per tonne for handling both container and bulk cargo. This initiative marks a significant step towards modernizing and optimizing cargo handling infrastructure in the region.

NMC Awaits Handover of 18 Completed Smart City Projects.

Despite the completion of 18 significant smart city projects under the Smart City Mission, including the much-anticipated Goda Park and the crucial Emergency Operation Centre, the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) is yet to receive formal possession. This delay has left some projects, like the Rs.20 crore Goda Park, lying idle for over 15 months since their inauguration, much to the disappointment of city residents.

The Goda Park project, a key component of the Godavari beautification initiative, was completed approximately a year ago but remains closed to the public. This Rs.20 crore investment boasts a range of attractions including children’s play areas, an amphitheatre, a fountain, an open gym, a rose garden, and an open restaurant.

Additionally, a floating jetty was constructed to facilitate boat rides on the Godavari River. The overall Godavari beautification project, encompassing developments at Godaghat near Ramkund and Ramwadi, along with another garden on the opposite bank of Ramkund, and basalt flooring and ‘Deepstambhs’ at Godaghat, amounts to a total cost of around Rs.75 crore.

Taking cognizance of the delay, Municipal Commissioner Manisha Khatri has now set a one-month deadline for the formal handover of all 18 completed projects to the NMC. Speaking to the press, Khatri emphasized that the handover must include comprehensive service level agreements. “The formal handing over for all projects will take some time as we need to enter into tripartite agreements between contractors, smart city corporation, and the NMC for operations and maintenance,” Khatri explained, expressing optimism that the process will be concluded within the next month.

Sumant More, CEO of Nashik Municipal Smart City Development Corporation Ltd (NMSCDCL), confirmed that 18 out of the total 21 projects under the Smart City Mission have been completed. These 18 projects represent a significant investment of Rs.650 crore out of the total Rs.1,000 crore allocated for all 21 initiatives. More stated that NMSCDCL is actively working on the tripartite agreements necessary for the smooth transfer of these completed projects to the NMC for operationalization and public use. The swift handover is eagerly awaited by the citizens of Nashik, particularly for flagship projects like the Goda Park, which holds the promise of becoming a major recreational hub for the city.

Maha CM Orders CIDCO to Boost Navi Mumbai Airport Connectivity.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) to prioritize the development of a comprehensive multi-modal transport connectivity system at the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. Speaking at a review meeting focused on CIDCO-led projects, including the airport’s development, the Chief Minister emphasized the creation of a seamless transport experience for future airport users.

Highlighting the project’s unique status, Fadnavis stated, “A multi-modal transport system should be created from the metro station to the airport. Care should be taken to ensure that citizens do not face any inconvenience. This will be the first international airport in the country to have such a facility.” He further urged CIDCO to adhere to strict timelines for all ongoing projects, ensuring high-quality housing construction and affordable housing options for citizens.

The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of developing world-class sports facilities in the Navi Mumbai area and expedited the completion of the Kharghar Valley Golf Course.

Looking ahead, Fadnavis envisioned the creation of environmentally sustainable and prosperous cities. “Considering future challenges, it is necessary to create environmentally friendly and prosperous cities. Along with a multi-modal transport system, emphasis should be placed on employment generation, and more use of solar energy should be made,” he stated. He specifically mandated the inclusion of a water taxi facility at the Navi Mumbai International Airport, further solidifying its status as a pioneering transport hub.

Recognizing the airport’s potential as a global gateway, the Chief Minister called for the early development of general aviation facilities and ample parking and aircraft repair services. He also emphasized the timely completion of road, rail, metro, and water transport connectivity projects.

Furthermore, Fadnavis urged CIDCO to accelerate the implementation of the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA) project, ensuring that road infrastructure is designed to accommodate future traffic demands. He also mandated the inclusion of strict project timelines in all future infrastructure tenders, emphasizing the need for efficient project delivery in the age of modern technology.

“When modern technology is available, it is not appropriate for any work to be delayed for a long time. Therefore, the duration of the works should be determined,” he remarked, underscoring his commitment to timely and efficient infrastructure development.

Noida-Greater Noida to Get New Six-Lane Elevated Expressway.

Commuters traveling between Delhi-NCR and the upcoming Noida International Airport are set to benefit from a new six-lane elevated expressway. The Uttar Pradesh government has directed the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) to spearhead the construction of this crucial riverside bypass, which will connect the Okhla barrage near Kalindi Kunj to the Yamuna Expressway, traversing the Hindon-Yamuna doab.

This development marks a shift from earlier considerations by the Noida Authority, which had explored both an eight-lane ground-level road and the now-approved six-lane elevated corridor. Officials cited extensive illegal constructions and farmhouses in the Yamuna floodplains as key factors making the elevated option more feasible. They argued that a ground-level road would not only encounter significant regulatory hurdles but also risk further encroachments in the flood-prone zone.

“A ground-level road would not have met the capacity or regulatory requirements. So, an elevated six-lane is the only viable solution,” said  Lokesh M. CEO, Noida Authority.

The revised alignment proposes a connection between Sector 168 and a 75-meter-wide road situated between Sectors 149A and 150. While some design adjustments are anticipated in the final plan, the elevated expressway promises direct connectivity for those traveling from Delhi and Faridabad to the Noida International Airport, slated to commence operations this year.

Initially, the Noida Authority had explored the possibility of involving the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in the project, which would have required designating the road as a national highway. However, this plan did not materialize.

During a board meeting on March 28, UP Chief Secretary and board chairperson Manoj Kumar Singh suggested that if the NHAI plan fell through, the Noida, Greater Noida, and Yamuna Expressway authorities should jointly undertake the project. Singh subsequently directed the Noida Authority to take the lead in its execution.

According to CEO Lokesh M, “The proposed expressway will be executed by UPEIDA, a nodal agency known for executing major expressways like the Lucknow-Agra Expressway and the Purvanchal Expressway, after the irrigation department issues a no-objection certificate. The project’s cost is to be shared by all three development authorities. A joint meeting will be held soon to finalize the execution plan.”

This new elevated expressway is expected to significantly improve connectivity and reduce travel time between Noida, Greater Noida, Delhi, Faridabad, and the highly anticipated Noida International Airport, boosting economic activity in the region.

Lucknow Announces Rs.400 Crore Infrastructure Boost for Cleaner, Greener City.

The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) has announced a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade plan exceeding Rs.400 crore, aimed at modernizing the state capital, combating pollution, and enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

The ambitious proposal encompasses a wide array of development projects, including the construction and repair of roads and drains, significant improvements in solid waste management, and a substantial boost to the city’s green cover to tackle air pollution.

These initiatives are slated to gain momentum in the coming weeks and will be executed under various schemes: the Infrastructure Fund, the Solid Waste Management Scheme, and the Air Quality Improvement Scheme. The government has sanctioned Rs.160 crore under the Infrastructure Fund, Rs.173 crore for waste management, and Rs.74 crore specifically for improving air quality.

A significant allocation of Rs.100 crore will be directed towards strengthening the city’s waste management system through the construction of new transfer stations for efficient sorting and processing of garbage. Road construction projects will receive Rs.134 crore. “A wide range of development initiatives are lined up to not only modernise the city’s infrastructure but also tackle pollution and improve cleanliness,” stated Inderjit Singh, the outgoing municipal commissioner. “LMC is committed to maintaining the city’s aesthetic appeal and development with a sustainable eco-friendly approach.”

The proposed expenditure details a comprehensive approach: Rs.60 crore for road repairs, Rs.30 crore for main road improvements, Rs.60 crore for the construction and repair of drains, Rs.39.44 crore for upgrading existing street lighting, and Rs.23.32 crore for installing new street lights in 88 villages under the Marg Prakash Yojana.

To enhance water infrastructure, Rs.19.19 crore is allocated for the construction of 28 new tube wells and Rs.26.64 crore for reboring 46 existing ones.

Other notable projects include Rs.6 crore for a new municipal corporation workshop in Hariharpur, Rs.3 crore for a flood pumping station at the zoo, and Rs.4.60 crore for another flood pumping station on the Faizullaganj drain.

Efforts to beautify the city and improve its environment include Rs.10.12 crore for cleaning Kathauta Lake, Rs.2 crore for constructing decorative water fountains at key intersections, Rs.1.7 crore for building welcoming gates at city entry points, Rs.8 crore for the beautification of neglected parks, Rs.6.71 crore for the development of a ‘Nagar Van’ under the Nagar Van Yojana, and Rs.16.2 crore for developing dense Miyawaki forests. A dedicated allocation of Rs.14 crore has been made for pollution control measures under the environment section, along with Rs.2.5 crore for procuring anti-smog guns and Rs.50 lakh for establishing a special cell focused solely on air quality improvement. This multi-faceted infrastructure upgrade signifies Lucknow’s commitment to becoming a cleaner, greener, and more modern city for its residents.

Mumbai Bullet Train Station Excavation Nears Completion: NHSRCL Reports 75% Done.

The National High Speed Rail Corporation Ltd (NHSRCL) announced recently that nearly 75 percent of the excavation work for the underground station at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), the sole subterranean stop on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor, has been successfully completed.

NHSRCL officials provided details on the significant progress achieved at the BKC site. The construction of this crucial station requires a total excavation of 18.72 lakh cubic meters of earth. With over 14 lakh cubic meters already removed, the project is well on its way to reaching this milestone. The station will have a total depth of 32 meters, equivalent to a 10-story building.

The bullet train platform at BKC is planned to be situated approximately 24 meters below ground level and will comprise three levels: the platform itself, a concourse level, and a service floor. The station will feature six platforms, each extending to about 415 meters in length, sufficient to accommodate a 16-coach bullet train.

For passenger convenience and seamless connectivity, the BKC station will have two entry and exit points. One of these will provide direct access to the adjacent metro station on metro line 2B, facilitating easy interchange for commuters.

The second entry/exit point will be located towards the MTNL building.

This progress in the excavation work marks a significant step forward in the development of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project, bringing closer the realization of high-speed rail connectivity in the region.

Navi Mumbai Airport to Open in June, Confirms Gautam Adani.

The much-awaited Navi Mumbai International Airport is set to be inaugurated in June, nearly two months behind its original April 18 schedule. The delay is attributed to pending work on the terminal building, with passenger operations expected to commence in July following a security clearance.

The revised timeline was confirmed after an inspection by Gautam Adani, chairman of the Adani Group, which is developing the airport. During the review, senior executives also tested the check-in system by issuing a dummy boarding pass.

In a social media post, Adani described the project as a “world-class airport taking shape”, adding that it will “redefine connectivity and growth” and be “a true gift to India.”

The first phase of Navi Mumbai International Airport will have the capacity to handle 20 million passengers and 0.8 million tonnes of cargo annually.

Regulatory approvals are progressing, with a trial flight by IndiGo conducted in January to validate approach and landing procedures. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) assessed the airport’s operational readiness in February, followed by the publication of aerodrome data earlier this month—a key step toward obtaining the aerodrome license.

Chennai International Airport’s Phase 2 Expansion to Be Completed by March 2026.

The second phase of the expansion and modernization of Chennai International Airport is set to be completed by March 2026. Phase 2 of the expansion includes the development of Terminal-3, which will increase the airport’s capacity to 35 million passengers per annum (MPPA). The project will also introduce enhanced passenger facilities, such as additional check-in and immigration counters, Automatic Tray Return Systems at security checks, and more baggage belts.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is overseeing the airport’s expansion and modernization in two phases at a total cost of Rs.2,467 crore. Under Phase 1, a new Integrated Terminal Building was constructed, boosting passenger handling capacity from 23 MPPA to 30 MPPA. The terminal has been operational since July 2023, providing full access to upgraded passenger amenities.

Four-Lane Connectivity Boost for Assam: Numaligarh-Dibrugarh Ready by Dec 2025

The much-anticipated four-laning of the Numaligarh-Dibrugarh stretch of National Highway-37 is on track for completion by December 31, 2025, announced Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Adding a unique dimension to the project’s inauguration, Sarma revealed that an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft will land on the newly constructed highway in January 2026, marking a historic first for infrastructure development in Assam.

Speaking at a public event in Dibrugarh recently, where he inaugurated two new flyovers, Sarma stated that the highway’s inauguration would be an unprecedented event. “By December 31, the four-lane highway will be completed. I have talked to Indian Air Force officials. In January 2026, we will inaugurate the highway by landing an aircraft at the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) being constructed at Moran. This is my promise to the people,” Sarma declared, to enthusiastic applause.

The Emergency Landing Facility (ELF), spanning a 3.5-kilometer stretch of the highway on the Moran town bypass, located 40 kilometers from Dibrugarh, will serve a dual purpose. It will function as an emergency landing strip for military aircraft and also aid in disaster response operations. The facility is designed to accommodate fighter jets such as Sukhois and Tejas, as well as transport aircraft like Hercules and Antonov AN-32.

During emergencies, this section of the highway can be swiftly closed to regular traffic, transforming it into a functional airstrip. The ELF is expected to significantly bolster national security in the region and enhance the speed and efficiency of deploying resources during natural calamities, such as the frequent floods that affect Assam.

The Numaligarh-Dibrugarh four-lane project is a vital component of the larger Guwahati-Dibrugarh high-speed corridor, an initiative aimed at revolutionizing connectivity across upper Assam. While the project has faced previous delays, it now appears to be firmly on schedule for completion by the end of the current year.

According to government officials, the 39.7-kilometer segment between Numaligarh and Jorhat was completed on March 15th of this year. Progress on the remaining sections varies, with the 37.8-kilometer Jorhat to Jhanji section at 66.93 percent completion, the 44-kilometer Jhanji-Demow section at 23.09 percent, the 26.9-kilometer Demow-Moran Bypass End section at 78.46 percent, and the 19.1-kilometer Moran Bypass End-Dibrugarh Bogibeel Junction section at 62.27 percent completion.

Once fully operational, the four-lane highway is poised to significantly improve the movement of goods and passengers, benefiting key sectors such as industries, agriculture, and tourism. It is also expected to streamline logistics for the prominent tea and oil industries that form the backbone of upper Assam’s economy.

PCMC Awaits State Funds for Pune-Nashik Highway Widening Project.

The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is currently awaiting the allocation of Rs.262 crore in funds from the Maharashtra state government to facilitate the acquisition of remaining land parcels required for the widening of the Pune-Nashik highway within its jurisdiction. The civic body had submitted its funding request in February, but the demand was not addressed in either the annual or supplementary state budgets.

According to a senior PCMC official, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has proposed expanding the existing highway to a uniform width of 60 meters. The current width of the highway varies considerably, ranging from 45 meters in some sections to a narrow 24 meters in areas like Bhosari and Chakan. While PCMC has successfully acquired approximately 90 percent of the necessary land through mechanisms like Floor Space Index (FSI) and Transferable Development Rights (TDR), the remaining landowners are insisting on monetary compensation, necessitating the request for state government financial support.

Civic officials noted that the land acquisition process between Nashik Phata and Bhosari progressed relatively smoothly, primarily because a significant portion of the land belonged to government entities such as the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) and the defence ministry. However, acquiring land for the 12-kilometer stretch situated between Bhosari and the Indrayani river, which falls entirely within PCMC limits, has proven to be a more complex undertaking.

Last year, the Centre’s cabinet committee approved projects worth Rs.7,827 crore, including an eight-lane elevated corridor spanning from Nashik Phata to Khed. NHAI has already initiated the bidding process for this elevated section, and PCMC is currently awaiting updates regarding the precise locations of entry and exit points to facilitate the acquisition of any additional land that may be required.

In December of the previous year, Shirur Member of Parliament Amol Kolhe also intervened by writing a letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging the state government to prioritize the acquisition of land for the 30-kilometer Nashik Phata-Khed elevated corridor. In his communication, Kolhe conveyed information received from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and NHAI officials during a meeting in Delhi, indicating that the project was facing delays due to land acquisition challenges encountered by the local authorities. The continued delay in receiving the requested state funds poses a potential impediment to the timely execution of the crucial Pune-Nashik highway widening project.

Vazhayila-Nedumangad Road Phase II Construction to Commence in July.

The much-anticipated second phase of the Vazhayila-Nedumangad road widening project is on track to commence construction in July. Officials involved in the project have announced that the tender process for this 10-kilometer stretch, connecting Karakulam to Valicode, will be initiated next month.

Significant progress has been made in the crucial process of compensating landowners affected by the project’s second reach. Out of the 312 landowners identified, compensation has been fully disbursed to 177 individuals. Furthermore, the awarding process for another 25 landowners is currently underway at the district collectorate, with the disbursal of funds expected to begin next week. Officials are optimistic about completing the compensation process for the remaining landowners by July, paving the way for the government to proceed with the tendering for road construction as planned. Existing regulations mandate that at least 80 percent of affected landowners must receive compensation before the tendering process for road works can move forward.

Food and civil supplies minister GR Anil, who is overseeing the project’s progress, has affirmed the government’s commitment to completing the entire Vazhayila-Nedumangad stretch before the end of its current tenure. “Compensation awarding of the second reach will be completed by July, and the tender for the third reach will begin in September. We expect the entire stretch from Vazhayila to Nedumangad to be completed by the first quarter of 2026,” He also provided an update on the construction of the flyover at Karakulam, an integral part of the project, stating that work on the pillars is nearing completion. The first reach of the project, spanning from Vazhayila to Keltron Junction at Karakulam and including the Karakulam flyover, is expected to be completed by December. Cherian Varkey Constructions has been awarded the contract for this initial phase. The 375-meter-long flyover will also feature a 300-meter approach road on both sides, with the total cost for this segment estimated at Rs.50 crore. The Kerala Road Fund Board is the designated executing agency for the entire project.

The widening of the 11.3-kilometer main carriageway is being executed in three distinct phases, with separate tenders being floated for each. Currently, survey work for the third phase, connecting Valicode to Nedumangad, is in progress. The overall project encompasses 9.5 kilometers from Vazhayila to Pazhakutty and an additional 1.2 kilometers from the Pazhakutty petrol pump junction in Nedumangad town to the 11th milestone. Construction of the first reach commenced five months ago. As part of a comprehensive rehabilitation package, eligible individuals, including those operating businesses on encroached land, have received compensation ranging from Rs.30,000 to Rs.2 lakh. The widening of this road has been a long-standing demand, crucial for significantly improving connectivity from the state capital towards Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu. The project’s progress signals a positive step towards enhanced infrastructure and connectivity in the region.

India to Host World’s Longest Hyperloop Tube at 410 Meters

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the Hyperloop testing facility at IIT Madras recently and announced that India will soon have the world’s longest Hyperloop test tube, measuring 410 meters.

The Hyperloop test facility, already the longest in Asia, is being developed at IIT Madras’ Discovery Campus. Hyperloop is a futuristic high-speed transportation system that operates in a near-vacuum tube to reduce friction and enhance speed. In a social media post on Sunday, Vaishnaw highlighted the milestone, stating, “Longest Hyperloop tube in Asia (410 m)… soon to be the world’s longest.”

During his visit, the minister witnessed a live demonstration of the Hyperloop system and praised the team for using indigenous technologies. He expressed confidence that India will be ready for Hyperloop transportation soon, as early tests have shown promising results. The Railway Ministry has provided financial and technical support for the project, and all electronic systems for the Hyperloop initiative will be developed at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. The minister noted that ICF experts have successfully built advanced electronics for Vande Bharat trains and will now contribute to Hyperloop technology.

Vaishnaw also commended the young innovators at IIT Madras and the Avishkar Hyperloop team for their efforts. Later, he visited the IIT Madras Guindy campus to inspect an exhibition by the Center for Innovation, titled “Open House 2025,” where he interacted with students and awarded prizes for innovative projects.

Speaking at the event, Vaishnaw emphasized India’s progress in fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and semiconductors, stating that the country has the highest number of skilled youth who will drive future technological advancements. He also announced that five semiconductor facilities are currently operational in India and that the country’s first domestically manufactured semiconductor will be rolled out by the end of this year. IIT Madras Director Dr. Kamakoti was also present at the event.