New promoter to complete pending works of NH 205

A higher official attached to the NHAI said, “The current promoter is facing financial loss and unable to make a headway in the project. The highways department is in the process of identifying a new agency.”

Regarding the status of work, the official said, “The work is in the completion stage. We surveyed the works that need to be done and collected all the data regarding it. As a process, the NHAI prepared an estimation and we are ready to go for bidding. We will be able to announce the promoter in a couple of weeks.”

The foundation stone of the project was laid in 2013. It was estimated to be built at a cost of Rs 1,000 crore. The 124 km project is envisaged to cover Padi Junction to Tirupathi via Ambattur, Tirumullavoyal, Avadi, Pattabiram and Tirunindravur.

Originally, it was planned to be completed by 2014, which was later extended till 2015. “We had partially completed the project in 2015, but experienced challenges related to the BOT toll package,” he added.

In 2017, the highways department resolved a land acquisition problem experienced in a 22 kilometer stretch located between Tiruppachur and Tirunindravur. “The department faced a stiff opposition from the public who were reluctant to give up their land. Also, the project was delayed as the Highways were waiting clearances from various departments including the Public Works Department. After awarding the contract to a new promoter, the patchwork will be completed soon,” he added.