Centre Approves Expansion of Hyderabad–Panaji Economic Corridor

In a significant boost to infrastructure and the transport sector in Telangana, the Union Government has approved the four-laning of National Highway-167 as part of the Hyderabad–Panaji Economic Corridor . The decision was cleared at a meeting of the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi .

Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy announced the development on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter).

The project involves widening the stretch from Gudeballur to Mahabubnagar , covering a total length of 80.01 kilometres . The estimated cost of the project is Rs 3,175.08 crore , and the works will be executed under the Hybrid Annuity Mode .

The expansion is expected to improve connectivity along the Hyderabad–Panaji route and ease traffic congestion. It is also likely to boost commercial and industrial activity, particularly in Narayanpet and Mahabubnagar districts . With connectivity to NH-150 and NH-167N , goods transportation is expected to become faster, leading to a reduction in logistics costs.

During the construction phase, the project is estimated to generate 14.4 lakh person-days of direct employment and 17.9 lakh person-days of indirect employment . Lower logistics costs are also expected to accelerate the growth of local businesses and industries.

Kishan Reddy thanked Prime Minister Modi and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari , describing the approval as a historic decision . He expressed confidence that the project would create new opportunities for the youth and business community in Telangana.