New Delhi: A long-awaited major infrastructure project in Gujarat has picked up pace, with the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) inviting a Request for Proposal (RFP) from expert consultants to design a new 4- to 6-lane high-speed expressway connecting Bhavnagar and Bharuch.

The standout feature of this ambitious project is a massive sea bridge across the Gulf of Khambhat. The total length of the corridor, including the sea bridge, is tentatively estimated at 68 kilometres, which is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the Saurashtra region and South Gujarat.

Currently, the journey between these two major hubs requires a long drive around the gulf. This new high-speed corridor is specifically designed to substantially reduce both travel distance and travel time for commuters as well as freight movement.

The project is also being coordinated with the Gujarat government’s Kalpasar Project, an initiative aimed at creating a large freshwater reservoir in the gulf. By integrating the new road and bridge with existing state plans, the government aims to create a “transformative national asset” that supports regional industrial growth.

What Happens Next?

The project is currently in its early planning stages. The government is seeking a reputed consulting firm to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR), which will serve as the master blueprint for construction. This report will cover:

• The final alignment of the road
• The design of the sea bridge
• Environmental and social impact studies to ensure minimal disruption to local communities and the environment

The consultancy phase is expected to last around 12 months. Once the plans are finalized and approved, the project will move toward the bidding process for actual construction.

The expressway is expected to be a game-changer for the state, offering a modern, access-controlled route that could make travel across the gulf faster and safer than ever before. DeshGujarat