NHAI implements large-scale measures to eliminate black spots on Thoothukudi-Madurai and Thoothukudi-Tirunelveli highways

In a significant step to eliminate black spots on highways connecting Thoothukudi, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) is carrying out major development works at 12 locations along Thoothukudi-Madurai (NH 38) and Thoothukudi-Tirunelveli (NH 138) at a cost of around ₹245 crore.

In addition, a tender worth ₹350 crore has also been floated for new structures along the same stretches.

The NH 38 and NH 138 serve as major arterial roads connecting the port city with other parts of the state. Hundreds of trucks, buses, cars and other vehicles pass through these roads everyday to Thoothukudi.

In the first phase, across both the highways, 12 accident-prone zones have been identified and NHAI has undertaken measures to build Vehicular Underpasses (VUP), Light Vehicular Underpasses and extend service roads.

On Thoothukudi-Tirunelveli highways, VUPs with 20 metre span are being constructed at Thoothukudi district Collectorate junction and Korampallam. Similarly, 12-metre-wide VUP’s are being constructed at Mangalagiri, Murappanadu and Vasavappapuram junctions.

Along the highway connecting Thoothukudi-Madurai, works are being carried out at several locations including VUP’s at Madathur, Eppodumvendran, Melakarandhai, LVP at Manjanayakkanpatti, Vembur and service road extensions in Thaneerpandhal junction and Melakarandhai (near Ramesh canteen.)

Of the total works undertaken by NHAI, the works on NH 38 is being carried out at a cost of ₹148 crore and works on NH 138 at a cost of ₹97 crore.

A tender worth ₹350 crore has been floated for development of similar structures along with Pedestrian Underpass (PUP) at various locations on Thoothukudi-Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi-Madurai highways. The locations include KTC Nagar, Vagaikulam, Thattaparai, Kurukkusalai, Keela Eral, Vilathikulam and Duraisamypuram.

Speaking on this, Krishnendra Dwivedi, Project Director, NHAI said that, currently the work has been carried out at identified black spot, defined as a 500 metre stretch where accidents with grievous injuries or fatalities are reported.

He added, “The works are being executed with the aim of eliminating black spots and ensuring a safe road for commuters.”

Mr. Dwivedi further noted that the first phase of work which began a few months ago is targeted to be completed by September.

“The tenders floated for the new projects will be finalised shortly and the works will begin within the stipulated timeframe,” he said.