Nelamangala-Tumakuru Highway: Service Road by 2026, Widening Complete by 2027

Quick Summary

• Project Overview: Launched in August 2022, the widening of a 44.04-km stretch of National Highway 48 (from Nelamangala toll gate to Tumakuru) involves expanding the existing four-lane highway to six lanes and constructing two-lane service roads on either side for access-controlled traffic.
• Progress: The project faced setbacks due to prolonged land acquisition challenges, halting construction for six months before resuming work in April 2025.
• Timeline Revision: Service roads are now expected by June 2026, while the entire highway is slated for completion by March 2027 – later than originally planned dates.
• Land Acquisition Issues: Delays attributed to compensation gaps, unnotified properties, and resistance from landowners affected progress at 35 points along the route. Most issues have now been resolved.
• Commuter Impact: The unfinished project has caused meaningful inconvenience for daily travelers between Bengaluru and Tumakuru. Some complain about poor planning and extended delays.

Photo Credit: File photo

Indian Opinion Analysis

The NH48 widening initiative underscores critical challenges associated with infrastructure development in India. While NHAI officials commendably resolved many land-related disputes that stalled progress, such occurrences highlight systemic inefficiencies in planning and execution phases – notably balancing stakeholder concerns like compensation with timely project delivery.This delay profoundly impacts commuters who rely on this essential corridor connecting Bengaluru with northern Karnataka’s economic hubs. From traffic congestion to disrupted daily routines, transportation inefficiencies can stifle productivity for businesses and households alike.

Future projects may benefit from better upfront alignment between government agencies and local stakeholders during acquisition stages while boosting transparency around timelines. Completion of service roads ahead of main construction could finally alleviate some commuter woes if achieved within revised deadlines.

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