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Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway: 72km Karnataka Stretch Completed

2024-11-15

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has completed the 72-km stretch of the Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway that falls within Karnataka. The project, which faced delays due to local objections over the relocation of the Guddamma Temple at Jinnagara, has now moved past its final hurdle. After over two years of negotiations with villagers and the state government, NHAI successfully shifted the temple and constructed the remaining 500-meter section of the road.

Despite the construction being completed, NHAI has yet to announce when motorists will be allowed to use the new road. The expressway has been integrated with the existing 82-km Satellite Town Ring Road (STRR), connecting Dabaspet to Hoskote. The Karnataka stretch has key entry and exit points at Malur, Bangarpet, and Bethamangala, allowing motorists to cover the distance in just 40 minutes.

NHAI is also planning to construct an 18-km road from Bethamangala to Mulbagal, further improving connectivity for travelers heading towards Mulbagal. Additionally, a cloverleaf junction at Hoskote now facilitates access for vehicles coming from Bengaluru, STRR, and NH 75.

At Kolathur, villagers have requested an underpass, opposing the construction of a ramp, which NHAI has said will be addressed as a separate project. Meanwhile, congestion on Old Madras Road and surrounding areas, including TC Palya and Medahalli, remains a challenge for those wishing to access the new expressway. A 15-km flyover from KR Pura to the Hoskote cloverleaf has been proposed, with a draft detailed project report submitted for approval.

Once fully operational, the 260-km Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway will reduce travel time between the two cities from over six hours to just three, covering the 350-km distance with a reduction of 80km. The expressway will have a maximum speed limit of 120 km/h.