Ahmedabad: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday announced the approval of a road development project in Gujarat, under which the 165.58-km Lakhpat–Gaduli–Zara–Hajipir–Khavda–Kandwan–Dholavira stretch of National Highway-754K in Kutch district will be upgraded to a two-lane road with paved shoulders at an estimated cost of ₹650.42 crore.

According to the minister, the project aims to strengthen connectivity in the Kutch region and link it more efficiently with the rest of Gujarat. The corridor is considered important as several major festivals and cultural events in Kutch depend on this route for accessibility. Improved road infrastructure is expected to make travel to these locations easier for visitors and locals alike.

The highway is also expected to support economic activity in the district by facilitating the movement of goods related to the mineral and salt industries, which are among the key sectors in Kutch. Better transport infrastructure will help improve logistics efficiency and support regional development.

Gadkari said the existing road is currently congested and accident-prone, causing inconvenience to commuters and transporters. The upgrade to a two-lane road with paved shoulders is expected to reduce traffic congestion, enhance road safety, lower vehicle operating costs, and improve fuel efficiency, leading to safer and smoother travel on the route.

Notably, the 30-km stretch popularly known as the “Road to Heaven”, which passes through the Rann of Kutch, is also part of this highway section. The upgrade from a single-lane road to a two-lane highway is expected to improve travel for tourists visiting the area, which is considered one of the most scenic routes in the region.

The project is part of the Centre’s ongoing efforts to improve highway infrastructure in Gujarat and strengthen connectivity in border and remote areas. DeshGujarat