Thu Sep 04 11:52:06 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Pudukottai-Aranthangi Highway widening project is entering its final phase. The ₹198 crore project, being executed in three phases under the Comprehensive Road Infrastructure Development Programme, aims to convert the existing road into a four-lane highway. The first two phases, costing ₹44 crore and ₹39 crore respectively, are complete. The final 19 km stretch will cost ₹115 crore and is expected to be completed in 10 months. The project includes the construction of culverts and the removal of trees. Saplings have been planted to offset the environmental impact.
**News Article:**
**Pudokottai-Aranthangi Highway Widening Project Enters Final Phase**
**Pudukottai, September 4, 2025** – The long-awaited widening of the Pudukottai-Aranthangi Highway is nearing completion, with the State Highways Department set to commence the final phase of the project next month. The ₹198 crore initiative, part of the Comprehensive Road Infrastructure Development Programme, aims to transform the existing road into a four-lane highway, promising smoother and faster travel for commuters.
The project, divided into three phases, has already seen the completion of the first two stretches, covering 4.8 km and 6 km at costs of ₹44 crore and ₹39 crore respectively. The final 19 km stretch will require an investment of ₹115 crore and is anticipated to take 10 months to complete.
“We are committed to completing this project efficiently and minimizing disruption to the public,” said a senior official from the Highways Department. The official added that land acquisition would not be required for the final phase.
Besides widening the road, the project also includes infrastructure improvements, with 32 culverts already constructed and an additional 31 planned for the final phase.
The project has necessitated the removal of trees. The department has been instructed to plant saplings of native tree species at a ratio of 1:10 and 1:20 for the removed trees. It has already planted 1,350 saplings. Saplings of ‘arali’ and neem have also been planted on the median on a 11-km stretch.
The completed highway is expected to significantly improve connectivity and reduce travel time between Pudukottai and Aranthangi.
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