Bengaluru-Mangaluru: High-Speed Future on the Horizon

The Union Ministry of Road Transport has taken a significant step toward developing a high-speed corridor between Bengaluru and Mangaluru by awarding a contract for preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR), according to Dakshina Kannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta.

In a letter dated 4 June, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari confirmed that the DPR contract was awarded on 30 April. The report is expected to be completed within approximately 18 months. The proposed expressway—likely to be an eight-lane route via Hassan—is aimed at drastically reducing travel time, easing traffic congestion, and driving substantial economic growth along the corridor and in coastal Karnataka.

MP Chowta noted that the project follows sustained efforts over the past year, including consultations with key officials at both the central and state levels. He also urged the government to consider preparing a combined DPR for both the highway and a proposed new railway line along the ecologically sensitive Shiradi Ghat, to streamline approvals and particularly address environmental clearance challenges.

Meanwhile, the ongoing four-laning of National Highway 75 between Hassan and BC Road, which began in 2017, remains incomplete—further highlighting the urgency of the new high-speed corridor initiative.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.