Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has approved a ₹840 crore highway upgradation project along the Godavari river. The project aims to facilitate 8 crore devotees during the upcoming Godavari Pushkarams and boost regional connectivity.

  • ₹840.41 crore approved for NH-365BB upgradation.
  • 45.09 km stretch to be converted into 2-lane with paved shoulders.
  • Focus on facilitating 8 crore devotees during Godavari Pushkarams.
  • Enhanced connectivity for Polavaram Irrigation Project and tribal areas.

Rajamahendravaram MP D. Purandeswari announced on Wednesday that Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari has officially sanctioned the upgradation of the two-lane road between Buttaigudem and Kovvur. The project, situated along the banks of the Godavari river, carries a revised cost of ₹840 crore.

The expansion will cover a 45-kilometer stretch of National Highway 365BB, passing through key areas including LND Peta and Pattiseema. This strategic move addresses the long-standing demand for better infrastructure to handle the massive influx of pilgrims expected during the Godavari Pushkarams.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this infrastructure upgrade serves a dual purpose: religious facilitation and economic integration. By connecting tribal pockets and the Polavaram Irrigation Project to major hubs like Rajamahendravaram, the government is laying the groundwork for long-term regional prosperity beyond the religious festivities.

Improved road infrastructure will enable faster, safer, and more efficient movement of agricultural produce to markets, strengthening farm-to-market linkages.

In a statement on X, Nitin Gadkari confirmed that the project would transform the Buttaigudem–LND Peta and Pattiseema–Kovvur sections into a 2-lane configuration with paved shoulders. This development is expected to significantly bridge the connectivity gap between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Historical Background: The Godavari Pushkarams are grand religious festivals occurring every 12 years, drawing millions of devotees for holy dips. Historically, the lack of robust road networks along the river banks has posed significant logistical challenges for pilgrims and local authorities alike during these peak periods.

Did You Know?: The Godavari River is often referred to as the 'Dakshin Ganga' due to its spiritual significance in Hindu mythology.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the main objective of this highway project?
The primary objective is to facilitate the movement of 8 crore devotees during the Godavari Pushkarams and improve connectivity to the Polavaram project.

2. Which highway is being upgraded?
The project involves the upgradation of sections of National Highway 365BB (NH-365BB).