Centre Approves ₹7,801-Crore Elevated Corridor for Pune-Nashik Highway

Nashik MP Rajabhau Waje raised concerns about the Pune-Nashik National Highway in the Lok Sabha, citing deteriorating conditions and traffic congestion.

The highway is a crucial transport corridor for agricultural produce, industrial goods, tourism, education, and healthcare, and its poor state has caused significant hardship to the public.

Waje sought clarification from the government regarding severe traffic congestion, poor road conditions, rising accidents, proposed bypasses, flyovers, an elevated corridor, and the creation of dedicated infrastructure to support Nashik's industrial growth.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari responded, stating that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is undertaking several junction improvement and traffic management works on the highway.

Immediate measures are being implemented, particularly in the Chakan and Khed areas, to ease traffic congestion.

More significantly, the Minister announced that the Central Government has approved an ₹7,801 crore project to construct an eight-lane elevated corridor as a permanent solution to the highway's long-standing congestion issues.

The project will be executed in phases, with completion targeted by 2030–31.

MP Waje emphasized that the Pune-Nashik Highway is the backbone of Nashik's development, and its improvement is essential for the city's growth.

He stated that he will continue to pursue the timely completion of every development project related to Nashik so that citizens can enjoy safe and efficient travel.

The new elevated corridor is expected to bring significant relief to the thousands of daily commuters who depend on the highway.

The project's approval is a major step forward in addressing the long-standing issues on the Pune-Nashik Highway, and its completion is eagerly anticipated by the people of Nashik.

The improvement of the highway will have a positive impact on the local economy, as it will facilitate the smooth transportation of goods and people, and enhance the overall connectivity of the region.

In conclusion, the Centre's approval of the ₹7,801 crore project for the Pune-Nashik Highway is a significant development that is expected to bring major benefits to the people of Nashik and the surrounding areas.