BENGALURU: In a significant development for commuters in Karnataka, a high-speed expressway is set to connect Bengaluru and Mangaluru, aiming to make travel faster and more convenient. Announced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), this ambitious project will play a pivotal role in enhancing transportation infrastructure across the state. The expressway is expected to address the challenges of the current route, which often faces disruptions, especially during the monsoon.
Spanning approximately 335 kilometers, the expressway will reduce travel time between the two cities by 3-4 hours, providing a much-needed solution to the long and arduous journey. The new corridor will connect Karnataka’s southern and coastal regions, improving connectivity and supporting economic growth. By bypassing existing problem areas, it will also ensure smoother travel throughout the year.
The project timeline is progressing steadily, with nine bids received earlier this year for the preparation of a detailed project report (DPR). The Ministry plans to finalize the contractor by next year, with the selected firm allotted 540 days to complete the DPR. Construction is expected to begin by 2028, led jointly by Karnataka’s Public Works Department (PWD) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The focus will include land acquisition and alignment of the road.
Once completed, the expressway will feature four to six lanes and pass through Hassan, significantly enhancing transport infrastructure in the region. This transformative project is anticipated to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce travel time, and contribute to economic development by providing a reliable and efficient transport corridor in Karnataka.
