NH-65 expansion work in Telangana to begin by January 2027: NHAI chief

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has assured the Telangana government that work on expanding the Hyderabad–Vijayawada section of National Highway 65 (NH-65) would begin by January 2027.

NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav gave assurance during a meeting with Telangana Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy in New Delhi on Monday. NHAI Member (Projects) Vipnesh Sharma also attended the meeting.

Mr. Venkat Reddy urged the NHAI authorities to expedite the tendering process and commence construction at the earliest, citing the increasing traffic volume and frequent road accidents on the highway, which connects Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

According to the NHAI chairman, November 11, 2026, is the last date for submission of tenders for the project, and the work is scheduled to begin by January 2027.

The proposed project envisages expanding the existing four-lane highway into a six-lane carriageway, along with service roads on both sides and controlled access facilities. The expansion is expected to ease traffic congestion, reduce travel time and improve road safety.

The minister stressed that the highway was a key transport corridor used daily by thousands of commuters and commercial vehicles. He said the expansion was essential to reduce accidents and provide safer and more convenient travel between Hyderabad and Vijayawada.

Mr. Venkat Reddy said road development should not be confined to improving travel facilities but should also focus on protecting lives, supporting commercial activity and strengthening transport connectivity between the two Telugu States.