Aims to complete stretch by year-end
Work in progress on the concrete section of Halga-Macche bypass on Belagavi-Panaji NH748 highway.
BELAGAVI
With rising traffic congestion and accidents caused by heavy vehicles on city roads, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has accelerated work on the Halaga–Macche Bypass.
The 9 km bypass on the Belagavi–Panaji NH 748 had been delayed for years due to legal disputes and opposition from farmers. Land acquisition began around 2009, but construction stalled after farmers moved the High Court, claiming work should not start until the Zero Point was finalised.
Officials now say the project is likely to be completed by the end of this year, or earlier if the current pace continues. Once ready, the bypass is expected to ease congestion and improve the movement of heavy vehicles.
NHAI Project Director Bhuvaneshkumar said work is progressing quickly, with more workers and machines deployed. He noted that earlier legal hurdles have been resolved.
Of the total stretch, about 1.2 km has been completed and is already in use. Three underpasses are ready, while other sections are at different stages, with efforts focused on finishing most work before the monsoon.
