Tue Jan 13 09:47:27 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Mangaluru’s B.C. Road-Surathkal Port Connectivity Road Set for Six-Lane Expansion and New Bypass

The Story:

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a significant infrastructure upgrade for Mangaluru, shelving previously planned grade separator work at Nanthoor Circle to pave the way for a larger project. This project will widen the 38km B.C. Road-Surathkal Port Connectivity Road into a six-lane highway, complete with service roads. Additionally, the NHAI intends to construct a bypass highway linking NH 66 and NH 75, aimed at diverting through traffic between Bengaluru and Mangaluru Port/Industrial Area, as well as Udupi.

The decision follows persistent advocacy by Dakshina Kannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta with Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. This led to the merger of New Mangalore Port Road Ltd., a special purpose vehicle of New Mangalore Port Authority and the NHAI, fully empowering the Highways Authority to spearhead the highway’s development. The NHAI has already floated tenders for detailed project reports (DPR) and possesses the necessary land to widen the highways up to 45m.

Key Points:

  • NHAI to widen B.C. Road-Surathkal Port Connectivity Road to six lanes.
  • A bypass highway will connect NH 66 and NH 75 to divert traffic.
  • Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh Chowta‘s advocacy was instrumental in securing the project.
  • New Mangalore Port Road Ltd. merged with NHAI, streamlining the development process.
  • Tenders floated for detailed project reports (DPR).
  • NHAI possesses required lands for widening.
  • Vehicular overpass at KPT Junction and grade separator at Nanthoor Circle projects foreclosed.
  • Planning an elevated highway between Kulai and KPT Junction, with solutions sought for the steep ascent of Kadri Hills.

Key Takeaways:

  • Strategic infrastructure development is a priority in Mangaluru to improve port connectivity and reduce traffic congestion.
  • Political advocacy plays a crucial role in accelerating infrastructure projects.
  • The merger of New Mangalore Port Road Ltd. with NHAI signifies a consolidated effort towards highway development.
  • The project involves careful consideration of existing infrastructure and geographical challenges, particularly concerning the elevated highway on Kadri Hills.

Impact Analysis:

The six-lane expansion and bypass highway project have significant long-term implications:

  • Economic Growth: Improved port connectivity will facilitate smoother transportation of goods, boosting trade and economic activity in the region.
  • Traffic Congestion Relief: The bypass will alleviate congestion within Mangaluru city by diverting through traffic.
  • Infrastructure Development: The project represents a major step forward in enhancing the region’s infrastructure, attracting further investment.
  • Employment Generation: Construction activities will create employment opportunities for local communities.
  • Real Estate: The improved connectivity could cause appreciation of value for real estate along the improved highway.

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