The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has released a tender for the construction of an elevated corridor from Pardiha Kali Temple to Baliguma on NH-33 (now NH-18). This corridor, spanning 10 kilometers, is expected to cost a total of INR 690.05 crores. The deadline for submitting bids is set for February 15.
It’s worth noting that recently, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways informed Member of Parliament Vidhyut Varan Mahato that initially, there were plans for a double-decker road on this route. However, due to the estimated cost exceeding INR 2000 crores, approval from the cabinet was not granted, and the process was expected to take a considerable amount of time.
Construction of High-Quality Road Expected in Two Years
In light of current needs, the Minister decided to proceed with the construction of the present elevated corridor, with potential expansion in the future considering future requirements. The decision aligns with the priority to address immediate concerns and anticipates future developments. The bidding process has been initiated accordingly.
Expressing satisfaction upon the release of the tender, the Member of Parliament stated that the construction of this elevated corridor from Pardiha Kali Temple to Baliguma is expected to result in the creation of a high-quality road within two years. This development is anticipated to bring relief to the city from traffic congestion and related issues for approximately the next 50 years. The MP expressed confidence that construction work would commence shortly after the resolution of the bidding process.
Initial Plan for Double-Decker Corridor at a Cost of INR 2200 Crores
Initially, the first double-decker elevated corridor from Pardiha to Baliguma was estimated to cost around INR 2200 crores. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari laid the foundation stone for this double-decker corridor in Gopal, situated in Bistupur. However, during a meeting with Nitin Gadkari on December 14, the Member of Parliament revealed that the cost had escalated to approximately INR 2200 crores.
Due to this increase, obtaining approval through the cabinet will be necessary. In such a situation, it is deemed more practical to construct a single-decker elevated corridor. The MP promptly agreed to this approach, stating that considering the current budget allocation, the work could commence soon. Additionally, the MP emphasized the immediate need for a flyover in Jamshedpur and suggested initiating the process promptly.
