Minister for Highways and Minor Ports E.V. Velu in Chennai said that a detailed project report (DPR) for the construction of a road connecting Chengalpattu and Thoothukudi port will be prepared. Along the 570-kilometer stretch, the four-lane road will pass via Tiruchi, Pudukkottai, and Manamadurai, providing port access to industries. A total of 4 crore would be spent on the DPR and a techno-economic feasibility report. Existing highways would be renovated, and a new 80-kilometer route would be built to boost port connection, according to Highways Department sources.
Mr. Velu also announced the preparation of another DPR for a road connecting Thoothukudi port and Coimbatore for ₹4 crore. In this case too, existing roads would be improved and a new road of 85 km would be formed. In the case of this road too, a techno-economic feasibility report would be prepared. “Both these roads will help in improving port connectivity, establishment of industries and job creation in the southern districts,” he added.