Chevella: The long-pending expansion works of the Hyderabad–Bijapur National Highway are progressing at a rapid pace in Chevella mandal. After years of legal hurdles, construction activities have picked up significantly over the past four months following clearance from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), Chennai.
The NGT, on October 31, 2025, permitted the widening of the highway with specific conditions, directing that the work be carried out through alternative alignments without damaging the historic banyan trees lining both sides of the road. The verdict cleared the way for immediate execution of the long-delayed project.
Following the court’s order, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy personally intervened and instructed officials to commence work without delay. Since then, construction activities have been ongoing continuously across Chevella mandal.
Bypass Road Work Gains Momentum
The construction of the Chevella town bypass road is currently in full swing. While works on underpasses and flyovers are underway, bituminous (BT) layers have already been laid at several stretches.
The contracting agency handling the project is operating in two shifts round the clock, with teams working 24 hours a day to meet the set deadlines. Recently constructed stretches on the Chevella bypass indicate visible progress, with the overall pace of work increasing steadily.
Authorities have set a target to complete the entire road expansion and make it fully operational within one and a half years. Officials have reiterated their commitment to adhering strictly to this timeline.
National Highway Status Since 2018
The road connecting Hyderabad to Bijapur in Karnataka was declared a National Highway in 2018 by the Central Government, after which expansion plans were initiated. Funds were sanctioned, and preliminary works began.
However, construction was stalled after an NGO approached the NGT in Chennai, demanding protection for the centuries-old banyan trees along the highway. The matter remained under legal scrutiny for several years before the tribunal finally granted conditional approval for widening on October 31, 2025.
Accidents Prompt Urgent Action
The lack of road expansion had led to increasing traffic congestion and frequent accidents along the Bijapur highway. A tragic incident on November 3, just two days after the NGT’s clearance, intensified public attention. An accident involving an RTC bus and a cement tanker at Mirjaguda in Chevella mandal claimed the lives of 19 people, drawing nationwide concern.
In response, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy directed officials to prioritize the project and ensure swift completion. The progress of construction is now being monitored on a weekly basis, with special emphasis on safety, timely execution, and adherence to environmental conditions.
With work now progressing at full speed, authorities aim to transform the Hyderabad–Bijapur corridor into a safer and more efficient highway, reducing travel time and preventing further accidents.
