Hans News Service Mangaluru

DakshinaKannada MP Captain Brijesh Chowta shared positive updates regarding the Union government’s nod for a Rs. 414.16-crore project that will construct an elevated flyover and service roads on National Highway 66 from Baikampady to KIOCL Junction. The National Highways Authority of India has taken the next step by launching the tender process.

Covering a 3.075-kilometre corridor, the development prioritises seamless connectivity with the New Mangalore Port. Plans detail a 1.520-kilometre six-lane elevated flyover executed through the EPC model, complemented by 5.825 kilometres of service roads positioned on both flanks of the highway. The New Mangalore Port Authority stands ready to offer required extra land along with financial backing.

The MP noted the strategic importance of this NH-66 portion as a primary route for cargo linked to the port’s export and import activities. The upcoming structures will isolate highway traffic from local vehicles, delivering improved flow and heightened safety.

This modernisation will particularly strengthen the Baikampady industrial belt and KIOCL vicinity, catalysing broader industrial output, economic momentum in Dakshina Kannada, and reliable coastal connectivity while preparing for future transport needs.

Challenges in the past stemmed from the port-area road falling under National Highway Logistics Management Limited’s purview, resulting in agency and funding difficulties. Consistent engagement successfully addressed these barriers and facilitated handover to NHAI. Parallel efforts have secured approval for underpasses at Baikampady and Kuloor Junction costing Rs. 11.63 crore, and related activities have already commenced.

Captain Brijesh Chowta stressed that persistent work on this front will enhance port connectivity and encourage port-driven progress across the district. He expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for greenlighting the project, which supports Dakshina Kannada’s contribution to the Viksit Bharat objective.