NHAI fast tracks ₹5,000-cr elevated expressway in TN

NHAI is all set to start the construction of the Chennai Port - Maduravoyal double-decker expressway involving ₹5,000 crore investment. The project cost has been revised by the NHAI from ₹3,100 crore to more than ₹5,000 crore and instead of three entries and three exits, the revised plan has seven entries and six exits. Of the 20.6 km stretch, 14 km (Napier bridge to Koyambedu) will be two tiers; the lower tier for local traffic, the upper one for travelling straight to Chennai port.

The detailed project report is being prepared based on the new alignment and CRZ clearance from the environment department has also been initiated. The state government has agreed to reimburse the royalty for raw materials such as earth and gravel. NHAI would enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Tamil Nadu government to commence the project as the former has agreed to the proposals and suggestions given by the state government. The state has asked for a connecting link to the expressway at Chintadripet (entry and exit), Montieth Road (exit), Binny Roadmongh (entry), Spurtank Road (entry) and near K3 police station (entry and exit). NHAI has agreed and forwarded it to the technical committee to study the feasibility.