Rising Bitumen Costs Delay Completion of Bridge Work in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu
The Rs 22 crore elevated bridge project remains partially incomplete, forcing motorists to continue using a narrow service lane that frequently experiences traffic congestion and safety concerns.
According to NHAI officials, the final bitumen layer on one side of the carriageway has not been laid because of the steep rise in tar prices, a petroleum byproduct, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The authority is awaiting stabilization of bitumen prices before completing the remaining surfacing work.
The delay has affected traffic movement on the busy highway corridor, with ambulances, buses and other vehicles facing congestion on the 30-foot-wide service lane, particularly during peak hours. Motorists have also raised concerns over inadequate street lighting, poor signage and safety risks caused by pedestrian and cattle movement along the stretch.
The remaining works include strengthening of the bridge’s retaining wall, laying of the final bitumen layer and installation of streetlights. Once completed, the elevated bridge is expected to ease traffic flow and improve road safety on the Chennai–Bengaluru highway section.
Published on:
10 June 2026
Share:
We Value Your Comment
