Coimbatore’s major highway and road infrastructure proposals have slowed after a change in government, triggering concerns that the city may struggle to cope with rapidly rising vehicle traffic.
Among the projects repeatedly flagged as crucial are the Coimbatore bypass (Neelambur–Madukkarai), the West bypass phases 2 and 3, the East bypass, upgrades around the Ukkadam/Upilipalayam roundabout area, the extension of the G.D. Naidu flyover up to Neelambur, and a flyover at the Lali Road junction. Despite continued representations to both the Union and State governments by industry stakeholders, several of these proposals have not advanced.
Officials note that while the G.D. Naidu flyover extension is included in the State Highways Department’s action plan, a formal government order and funding allocation are still pending. The road segment has since moved under the National Highways Authority, meaning inspections, a detailed project report, approvals from Delhi and funding processes could take time.
Delays are also cited for the Coimbatore bypass, where plans have shifted towards a six-lane configuration. Funding has reportedly been held up, with the presence of a gas pipeline cited as a reason. For the West bypass, only phase 1 is complete; uncertainty continues over whether the Highways Authority or the Construction and Maintenance wing will execute phases 2 and 3.
The East bypass has been dropped by the Union government, while officials say a flyover at Lali Road is expected, though a revised project report is yet to be sent to the government. Industry representatives have expressed dissatisfaction, warning that prolonged delays could divert investments and erode public confidence in the government’s ability to deliver key infrastructure.
