The Centre has given a major infrastructure push to northern India by approving ₹1,463.95 crore for the construction of a six-lane, access-controlled greenfield spur in Punjab. The ambitious road project is expected to significantly improve connectivity toward Shimla while easing long-standing traffic congestion across the Tricity region.
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced the approval and described the project as a strategic step to streamline traffic and strengthen regional infrastructure. The new corridor will connect the Ambala–Chandigarh section of NH-205A directly with the Zirakpur Bypass, forming a crucial part of the proposed Tricity Ring Road.
Over the past decade, the Tricity — comprising Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula — has witnessed rapid urban growth. Rising vehicle numbers and heavy inter-state traffic have placed enormous pressure on key highways such as NH-44, NH-205A, and NH-152. Daily commuters frequently face bottlenecks, especially during peak hours and holiday seasons when traffic toward Himachal Pradesh surges.
The new six-lane greenfield spur has been designed to divert heavy through-traffic away from city roads. By creating an access-controlled route with regulated entry and exit points, authorities expect smoother movement of vehicles and a noticeable reduction in congestion at major urban junctions. The project aims to separate long-distance highway traffic from local city commuters, improving both safety and efficiency.
One of the most significant benefits of the project will be faster travel toward Shimla and other parts of Himachal Pradesh. Tourists often encounter frustrating delays while crossing the Tricity belt before heading to the hills. With the new corridor in place, travel time is expected to reduce considerably, offering a smoother experience for weekend travellers and holidaymakers alike.
Beyond easing urban congestion and boosting tourism, the project is also expected to strengthen economic integration in the region. Improved connectivity will allow quicker transportation of goods, reduce logistics costs, and enhance supply chain efficiency for businesses operating in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. Infrastructure experts believe the development will also support planned urban expansion and long-term growth across the region.
The ₹1,463 crore investment reflects the Centre’s continued emphasis on strengthening highway infrastructure and supporting regional development. As construction progresses, residents of the Tricity can look forward to less crowded roads, improved traffic flow, and faster connectivity to the hill state. The project marks another step toward building a more efficient and future-ready transport network in northern India.