Flyover works begin at Kitchipalayam, Erumapalayam junctions on Salem-Ulundurpet NH

The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) commenced the construction of flyovers at the accident-prone Kitchipalayam and Erumapalayam junctions on the Salem-Ulundurpet National Highway (NH). 

Thousands of vehicles head to Bengaluru, Namakkal, Madurai, Karur, Dindigul, Erode, and Coimbatore from Kallakurichi, Attur, and Vazhapadi. They pass the Kitchipalayam and Erumapalayam junctions every day. The junctions connect areas between Salem Corporation and Sanniyasigundu panchayat. Since vehicles travel along this stretch around the clock, many accidents occur—especially for two-wheelers when crossing the highway at night.

Following an increase in deaths due to accidents reported on this stretch, the NHAI Villupuram zone officials submitted a proposal for the construction of two flyovers at the two junctions, and in January 2026, the NHAI approved the flyovers. The tender process was also completed in the following months.

Subsequently, a few weeks ago, the NHAI began the construction work, and vehicles are being diverted via the service road. The NHAI also identified encroachments on its land near the service road, issued notices to the encroachers, and began removing the encroachments to provide space for free vehicle movement. The Salem City Police deployed traffic police on the spot to ensure vehicle movement without any disruption during the morning and evening hours.

Officials attached to the NHAI said that the two flyovers, each two kilometres in length, will be constructed at a total cost of ₹45 crore. The flyovers will include two underpasses, one for vehicles to pass from the corporation limits into the panchayat areas. Construction is expected to be completed in 18 months, and the flyovers are to be opened to the public before March 2028, officials added.