Rs 21,000-crore NH 744 development project moves closer to approval

T’puram: The detailed project report (DPR) for comprehensive development of Kadampattukonam–Sengottai stretch of NH 744, estimated at Rs 21,000 crore, has been submitted to ministry of road transport and highways for approval after verification, marking a major step towards implementation of the project.The update was announced following discussions in New Delhi with road transport and highways secretary Uma Shankar, chief engineer Aditya Prakash and national highways authority member Venkataramana.The ambitious project covers all three reaches of NH 744 — Rajapalayam-Sengottai in Tamil Nadu, Sengottai-Edamon (second reach), and Edamon-Kadampattukonam (third reach) in Kerala. A portion of the second reach has already been submitted to environment and forest department for a no-objection certificate, while the terms of reference have been approved.The 23-km Sengottai-Edamon stretch is estimated to cost Rs 10,033 crore, with 10.5km comprising rock-cut tunnels. Four tunnels have been proposed to minimize steep gradients and sharp bends. The design also aims to reduce impact on forest land and the environment through elevated structures built on pillars.The 39-km Edamon-Kadampattukonam stretch is expected to cost Rs 7,015 crore and includes the construction of 26 viaducts. Elevated roads supported by pillars have been proposed in areas with poor soil quality and landslide-prone terrain to improve road safety and reduce risks associated with earthen retaining walls.The project proposal will next be examined by Project Appraisal Technical Committee before being placed before the Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee (PPPAC), a high-level body comprising economic affairs secretary, law secretary, NITI Aayog secretary, road transport secretary and expenditure secretary. The committee’s recommendations will be submitted to the Union Cabinet for final approval.Once approved, compensation for acquired land will be notified and further land acquisition proceedings in pending villages will be expedited.