Madurai Gears Up for Safer Roads: ₹111-Crore Flyover & Underpass Project to Transform NH-44

Madurai is set to witness a significant upgrade in its road infrastructure, with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) announcing a ₹111 crore project on the NH-44 stretch that runs through the district. The plan includes the construction of a major flyover and three vehicular underpasses at accident-prone junctions—aimed at improving safety, reducing congestion, and supporting the region’s growing industrial and healthcare demands.

Addressing a Long-Pending Concern

The NH-44 corridor through Madurai has been a critical artery, connecting the city with major southern districts and serving as a gateway for interstate trade and logistics. However, it has also been a notorious accident zone, with busy intersections and uneven traffic flow leading to frequent fatalities and injuries.

Local residents and commuters have long demanded better infrastructure to prevent mishaps, particularly at junctions like Koothiyarkundu, Kappalur Sidco, and Kuthiraichanikkulam, which witness heavy vehicular movement daily. NHAI’s project has been designed with these black spots in mind.

An NHAI official explained, “Our focus is not just on easing traffic congestion but primarily on enhancing safety. The underpasses and flyover will eliminate risky crossings and streamline highway mobility.”

Project Components

Flyover: A new flyover will be constructed at Koothiyarkundu, where bottlenecks have become a daily frustration for commuters.

Underpasses: Three underpasses are planned at Kappalur Sidco, Kuthiraichanikkulam, and another high-risk junction to allow smoother vehicle passage without clashing with highway traffic.

Pedestrian Provisions: While primarily for vehicles, the project also includes dedicated pedestrian pathways in some areas to prevent jaywalking-related accidents.

The estimated project cost of ₹111 crore covers construction, land adjustments, and safety reinforcements such as crash barriers, signage, and lighting.

Timeline and Tendering

According to officials, the tendering process has already begun, with bids closing on September 26, 2025. Construction is expected to begin by the end of the year, pending environmental and clearance approvals. Once started, the project is projected to take 18 to 24 months for completion.

Boost for Industry and Healthcare

The upgrade is not just about road safety—it is also expected to play a pivotal role in Madurai’s economic and healthcare growth. The Kappalur Sidco Industrial Estate, a hub for small and medium-scale industries, has been struggling with poor road connectivity for years. Easier access will help improve logistics and attract new investors.

Moreover, the highway leads to the site of the upcoming AIIMS Madurai hospital. With thousands of patients and healthcare workers expected to travel daily once the hospital becomes fully functional, the improved road system will provide much-needed relief.

Local entrepreneur S. Kannan noted, “Industries here have been waiting for smoother road connectivity. With AIIMS coming up, this project is not just timely—it is essential.”

Political and Civic Reactions

Civic groups welcomed the announcement but stressed the importance of quality execution. In past projects, delays and poor maintenance have undermined the impact of infrastructure investments.

Political observers see this move as part of a broader push by both state and central authorities to showcase developmental initiatives in Madurai, especially as the city continues to expand as a regional hub.

Balancing Development with Community Needs

While the project has been widely appreciated, concerns remain over potential displacement of small vendors and roadside businesses during construction. NHAI has assured that adequate rehabilitation measures will be considered wherever necessary.

Urban planners also caution that underpasses can sometimes lead to flooding if not designed with effective drainage systems. Hence, sustainable engineering solutions will be critical.

What It Means for Madurai

• Once completed, the ₹111-crore project is expected to:

• Reduce accidents and fatalities on NH-44.

• Provide industrial estates and business zones with faster connectivity.

• Support healthcare access for patients traveling to AIIMS Madurai.

• Strengthen Madurai’s role as a logistics and medical hub in southern Tamil Nadu.