NHAI Plans 18-km Link Road to Connect Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway with NH 75 for Better Access to Andhra Border
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is exploring the development of an 18-kilometre connecting road to link the Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway with the Bengaluru-Kolar Highway (NH 75) within Karnataka’s boundaries, according to a report by the Times of India.
This proposed connector is intended to enhance accessibility for motorists traveling to key regions in Andhra Pradesh, such as Chittoor and Tirupati. Although a 68-kilometre portion of the expressway — from Hoskote to Bethamangala near Kolar Gold Fields (KGF) — has been opened to traffic, its incomplete connectivity has been a major hurdle. Motorists currently have to rely on narrow district and village roads, making the journey less efficient and more hazardous.
An NHAI official highlighted that the expressway lacks seamless links to major highways. “We’re considering the upgrade of existing district and rural roads to connect the expressway to NH 75, both towards Sundarapalya and in the direction of Mulbagal,” the official said. This upgrade is expected to increase the number of users and potentially justify toll collection.
The expressway currently handles between 1,800 and 2,000 vehicles daily. To support the proposed improvements, NHAI has approached Kolar district authorities to provide details on necessary upgrades and changes to ensure these roads are safe and suitable for higher volumes of traffic.
Meanwhile, safety remains a pressing concern. Despite restrictions, two-wheelers, autorickshaws, and even tractors are frequently found on the expressway, where such vehicles are prohibited for safety reasons. In March, a tragic accident involving a car and a two-wheeler that reportedly entered from the wrong direction resulted in four fatalities.Law enforcement has since intensified checks along the expressway. KGF Superintendent of Police K M Shantharaju confirmed that checkpoints have been established, and efforts are ongoing in coordination with NHAI to implement stronger surveillance and prevent violations.
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