The much-anticipated expansion of the Phagwara-Hoshiarpur road into a four-lane highway has officially commenced, representing a significant advancement in improving regional transportation and infrastructure. The initiative, flagged off by former Union Minister Som Parkash, is viewed as a pivotal infrastructure project intended to enhance traffic flow and stimulate economic growth in the region.
Spanning a total length of 48.622 kilometers, the highway development includes the creation of two important bypass routes. The Phagwara bypass, measuring 6.8 kilometers, will begin at Ludhiana Road near Jamalpur and connect to Mehli Chandigarh, while the Hoshiarpur bypass will cover 9.5 kilometers, linking village Murli Brahman to Una Road. These bypasses are planned to ease traffic congestion and facilitate smoother travel between key urban centers.
Path India Ltd has been entrusted with the execution of the project, which is slated for completion within a two-year timeframe. Designed as a high-speed corridor, the road will permit vehicular speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour. Furthermore, 73.044 kilometers of service roads will be developed alongside the primary route to serve local commuters.
Notable infrastructural components of the project encompass one major bridge, 11 minor bridges, 20 underpasses catering to various vehicle types, a railway overpass, 41 prominent junctions, 28 bus lay-bys, and two exclusive lay-bys for trucks. These additions aim to ensure efficient movement, enhanced safety, and greater convenience for both passenger and freight transport.
The overall project budget is estimated at ₹1,058 crore, with an additional ₹500 crore allocated for land procurement and associated costs.
The groundbreaking event witnessed the presence of senior officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), including Director Pramod Meena, as well as local dignitaries and political representatives. This initiative is poised to greatly strengthen connectivity between Phagwara and Hoshiarpur, reduce travel duration, and foster regional economic progress.