Mangaluru: The central govt has approved the construction of an elevated flyover and service road from Baikampady to KIOCL Junction on National Highway-66, costing Rs 414.2 crore. The National Highways Authority of India has initiated the tender process.Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta said this project aims to improve direct connectivity to the New Mangalore Port. It involves developing a 3.1 km long road, including a state-of-the-art 1.5 km six-lane elevated flyover. The project is being implemented in an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) model, and a total of 5.8 km of service roads will be constructed alongside the highway. The New Mangalore Port Authority will provide the necessary additional land and financial assistance to the highway authority for the successful implementation of this project, the MP said.“The road section on NH-66 serves as a crucial corridor for direct access to the New Mangalore Port and the transportation of export-import goods. This new project will separate highway traffic from local vehicles, facilitating smooth traffic flow and enhancing road safety. The road development project in the Baikampady industrial area and the KIOCL zone will be a key driver for the industrial and economic growth of the district. Along with improving the overall road connectivity in the coastal region, it will help meet future traffic demands and provide long-term infrastructure benefits,” Capt Chowta said.The underpass construction project near Baikampady and Kuloor Junction on NH-66, costing Rs 11.6 crore, has already been approved and is under way. “Following this, the central govt has now given the green signal for the construction of the elevated flyover and service road, which will elevate our port-area highway zone to a modern level. This development corridor will not only facilitate the smooth movement of cargo vehicles to the New Mangalore Port, but also provide advanced and long-term infrastructure facilities for the daily commute and safety of local residents,” he added.
