NHAI seeks special approval to reduce traffic congestion in Ayodhya, plans worth Rs 3500 crore

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has become active in reducing the increasing traffic jams in Ayodhya and surrounding areas. The ministry has sought special approval from the Center to build a 68-km long greenfield bypass with an investment of Rs 3,570 crore. National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has invited tenders for this 4/6 lane highway. This highway will cover Lucknow, Basti and Gonda districts.

According to media reports, this project will be in two parts – North Ayodhya and South Ayodhya Bypass. The plan has been made keeping in mind the expected high increase in passenger and cargo vehicle movement in the area after the inauguration of Ram Mandir. According to estimates, traffic may increase from the current 89,023 per day to 2.17 lakh per day in 2033. The bypass will be built in public-private partnership (PPP) mode.

Sources said that special approval has been sought because the Finance Ministry has asked the Road Ministry not to start any new project under Bharatmala at present. He said that since the cost of the project is more than Rs 1,000 crore. Therefore, the ministry needs to seek approval from the apex committee that evaluates PPP projects. NHAI wants to complete the construction work in two and a half years.