The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has initiated plans for a 335 km expressway linking Bengaluru and Mangaluru, aiming to reduce travel time between the cities by 7 to 8 hours. In July 2024, MoRTH invited bids for selecting a consulting firm to develop a detailed project report (DPR). By November 2024, nine firms submitted bids, and MoRTH expects to award the contract in 2024. The chosen consultant will have 540 days to complete the DPR, with construction anticipated to start by 2028.
Jointly managed by Karnataka’s Public Works Department and the National Highways Authority of India, the expressway will feature a four to six-lane design, easing congestion along the route through Hassan. This high-speed corridor is expected to strengthen Karnataka’s transport infrastructure, supporting economic growth and enhancing connectivity for residents and businesses in both cities.