Nashik-Solapur Corridor and Odisha Highway Upgrades
The Union Cabinet has taken a significant step towards enhancing India's infrastructure by approving the construction of a 6-lane high-speed corridor between Nashik and Solapur in Maharashtra. This ambitious project, along with the widening of NH-326 in Odisha, comes with a hefty investment of ₹20,668 crore. These initiatives are set to revolutionize connectivity between the western and southern regions of India, promoting trade and economic growth.
The Nashik-Solapur corridor, which stretches 374 kilometers, is a key part of the larger Surat-Chennai high-speed corridor. This corridor will not only reduce the travel distance from Nashik to Solapur by 14%, but it will also increase the average speed from 60 km/h to 100 km/h. As a result, the overall travel time from Surat to Chennai will be slashed by 45%, from 31 hours to just 17 hours. This project is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of logistics and freight movement across these regions.
Developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, the project is the largest value BOT initiative in India, costing approximately ₹19,142 crore. The construction will be completed in two years and will traverse key districts such as Nashik, Ahilyanagar, Dharashiv, and Solapur. The integration of this corridor with existing expressways will also provide seamless connectivity from the west coast to the east coast of India.
In addition to the Nashik-Solapur corridor, the Cabinet has approved the widening and strengthening of NH-326 in Odisha. This 206-km project will upgrade the existing 2-lane road to a 2-lane road with paved shoulders, costing ₹1,526 crore. The improvements will address the road's sub-standard geometry, enhancing safety and efficiency for vehicle movement.
The NH-326 project aims to rectify numerous deficiencies such as steep gradients and tight curves that currently hinder smooth transportation. By implementing geometric corrections, the upgraded road will facilitate safer travel and increase freight capacity to coastal ports and industrial centers in southern Odisha. Overall, these initiatives represent a significant leap forward in India's road infrastructure, promising a future of improved connectivity and economic growth.
