Raipur, Chhattisgarh has achieved a significant milestone in infrastructure development with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) completing the construction of the state’s first National Highway tunnel’s left-hand side in a record time of just 12 months.
The 2.79-kilometre-long tunnel is a critical part of the Raipur–Visakhapatnam Economic Corridor (NH-130CD) and is being constructed by the NHAI’s Abhanpur Project Implementation Unit. This engineering breakthrough is set to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time significantly between Raipur and Visakhapatnam, and boost economic activity across Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed his delight at the achievement, terming the completion as a “historic step” towards a stronger and prosperous Chhattisgarh. He stated that the development of road and transport infrastructure forms the “backbone of the state’s progress.” The tunnel is also expected to open new avenues for tourism and socio-economic integration within the state.
The Chief Minister extended his gratitude to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari and the NHAI team for the remarkable feat. He added that the project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision and will pave the way for development for future generations. Once the twin-tube tunnel is fully operational, it is expected to accelerate trade and industry in the region.