Outer Ring Road to Open for Traffic by April 2025

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Aerial view of the Outer Ring Road in Nagpur nearing completion.

The much-awaited Outer Ring Road in Nagpur, a 64-km expressway designed to decongest city roads, is set to open for traffic in the first week of April 2025. After years of construction and a massive ₹2,000 crore investment, the project is finally in its last phase. Once operational, it will significantly reduce traffic congestion, improve connectivity, and offer a smoother bypass route for vehicles entering Nagpur.

The Outer Ring Road is designed to ease the burden of traffic congestion in Nagpur by offering an alternative route for heavy vehicles and transit traffic. Initially planned for completion in 2019, the project faced multiple delays but has now entered its final phase.

History and Development

The foundation stone for the Outer Ring Road was laid in 2016, with an initial deadline of 2019. However, various challenges, including land acquisition, funding issues, and technical hurdles, pushed the completion date forward.

Route and Connectivity

The 64-km road connects major highways and junctions, allowing vehicles to bypass Nagpur’s city roads. The route starts from Jamtha on Wardha Road, passing through Samruddhi Expressway Junction, Katol Road, Koradi, Fetri, and Nagpur-Jabalpur Highway, ending at Nagpur bypass near Kapsi.

Key Connecting Points:

Jamtha (Wardha Road)
Samruddhi Expressway Junction
Katol Road
Koradi & Fetri
Nagpur-Jabalpur Highway
Kapsi (Nagpur Bypass)

Benefits of the Outer Ring Road

Reduced traffic congestion in Nagpur
Direct connectivity for intercity travelers
Smoother transport for heavy vehicles
Decreased pollution and fuel consumption
Faster commute for local passengers

Project Cost and Execution

The Outer Ring Road project has been executed under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) with a budget of ₹2,000 crore. Despite delays, the final phase is now nearing completion.

Traffic Relief for Nagpur

With a rising population and increasing vehicles, Nagpur’s traffic situation has worsened over the years. The Outer Ring Road will divert heavy vehicles, significantly reducing congestion in key areas.

Impact on Heavy Vehicles

Truck traffic from Hyderabad to Jabalpur will have a direct route.
Vehicles from Betul to Bhandara can bypass Nagpur and head towards Kolkata.
Reduces pressure on existing roads and bridges.

Phase-Wise Completion

The project was divided into two phases:

Phase 1: Jamtha to Nagpur bypass
Phase 2: Fetri to Kapsi

Most of Phase 1 is already completed, and Phase 2 is expected to wrap up soon.

Challenges Faced During Construction

Land acquisition disputes
Delays in funding approvals
Technical difficulties in road alignment
Weather-related setbacks

Final Touches and Remaining Work

Experts predict that minor pending work on the Outer Ring Road will be completed by March 2025, making it fully operational in April 2025.

Comparison with Inner Ring Road

Nagpur already has an Inner Ring Road, but due to increased traffic demand, the Outer Ring Road was developed to further ease congestion and support long-distance travelers.

Government’s Future Plans

Authorities plan to expand road infrastructure, improve connectivity, and build additional bypasses for better traffic management.

Public Reaction and Expectations

Residents of Nagpur are eager for the Outer Ring Road to open, expecting faster commutes, reduced traffic, and better city management.

The Outer Ring Road in Nagpur is set to revolutionize traffic movement by offering an efficient alternative for heavy vehicles and commuters. With April 2025 as the final launch date, Nagpur’s road network is on the brink of a major transformation.