In a significant development for India’s infrastructure, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, is set to inaugurate the country’s first-ever cable-stayed bridge built on a curve in Goa on Tuesday. The groundbreaking ceremony will take place in the presence of local government officials, marking a major milestone in the state’s road development efforts.
The cable-stayed bridge, which connects Sada to Varunapuri and the Goa International Airport, is a one-of-a-kind structure with a unique curvature radius of 180 degrees, making it the first of its kind in India. This state-of-the-art bridge is expected to greatly improve connectivity in the region, providing smoother access to key locations in Goa.
Additionally, Minister Gadkari will lay the foundation stones for four major highway expansion projects, totaling an investment of Rs 2,500 crore. These initiatives are part of the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and boosting economic development in the state. The four projects are as follows:
- Ponda to Bhoma Section (NH-748): Estimated at Rs 1,376.12 crore, this project will improve connectivity between Ponda, Bandora, Priol, Cuncoliem, Cundaim, Bhoma, Corlim, Old Goa, and Panaji. It will streamline access to key areas within the state, facilitating smoother traffic flow and enhanced access to Goa’s cultural hubs.
- Zuari to Margao Bypass (NH-66): This bypass will connect industrial estates, Dabolim Airport, Mormugao Port, and the city of Ponda, offering a more efficient route for both local commuters and long-distance travelers.
- Navelim to Cuncolim Section (NH-66): This section will further enhance connectivity between Panaji, Margao, Dabolim Airport, Mormugao Port, and neighboring areas in South Goa, including Karnataka.
- Bendordem to Karnataka Border (NH-66): This stretch will strengthen road connectivity with the neighboring state of Karnataka, offering economic and logistical benefits to both regions.
A spokesperson from the Goa government emphasized the transformative nature of these projects, which aim to improve connectivity between the state’s two airports and ports. The government views these initiatives as crucial for enhancing logistical efficiency and fostering economic growth in Goa.
Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, these infrastructure projects are poised to boost Goa’s development and establish a strong foundation for regional connectivity and growth.