The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is set to inaugurate the country’s first access-controlled greenfield highway connecting Khammam to Devarapalli in May 2025. The 162-kilometre highway project has achieved 95% completion, marking a significant milestone in Telangana’s road infrastructure development. This modern expressway will transform connectivity between Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam, offering a faster and more efficient travel route.
The new highway will reduce the distance between Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam by 56 kilometres, eliminating the need for the longer existing route via Suryapet and Vijayawada. This direct corridor is expected to bring about a significant reduction in travel time for commuters and commercial vehicles traveling between the two major cities. The access-controlled design ensures uninterrupted traffic flow with limited entry and exit points.
The highway features only 9 designated entry and exit points along its entire stretch, ensuring controlled access that enhances safety and maintains high-speed traffic movement. One package of the project, Khammam-Devarapalle Package IV, covering the section from Recherla village to Gurvaygudem village with design chainage 105236 to 132664, has been completed 100%. The remaining packages are currently in progress.
The highway incorporates an Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) with 360-degree CCTV cameras installed every 2 kilometres along the entire route. This comprehensive surveillance network will monitor traffic conditions in real-time and enhance security for all users. The system is designed to ensure smooth traffic operations and quick response to any incidents on the expressway.
Automatic enforcement mechanisms will issue challans for traffic violations including overspeeding, not wearing seatbelts, and wrong-route driving. The toll collection system will be based on the actual distance traveled by vehicles, implementing a fair and transparent charging mechanism. This technology-driven approach aims to improve compliance with traffic regulations and ensure road safety.
Travelers will benefit from wayside amenities positioned every 50 kilometres along the highway. These facilities will include hotels, washrooms, and petrol bunks, providing essential services for long-distance travelers. The highway will also feature QR codes at strategic locations providing information about nearby police stations and fuel stations, making it easier for motorists to access emergency services and refueling points.
The project incorporates environmentally sustainable features, including a solar-powered automatic lighting system that will illuminate the highway. This green technology initiative will reduce energy consumption and operational costs while ensuring adequate visibility during night hours. The solar lighting system represents NHAI’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure development.
The NHAI is currently completing the remaining work packages to meet the May 2025 inauguration deadline. The greenfield highway represents a new generation of road infrastructure in India, combining advanced technology, safety features, and passenger amenities. The project is expected to boost economic activity and improve connectivity across the region once operational.
