Construction work on the Vijayawada–Bengaluru greenfield national highway has gathered significant momentum, marking a major push in India’s highway infrastructure development. Implemented as National Highway-544G under Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase II, the project is designed as a six-lane, access-controlled corridor aimed at improving long-distance mobility, freight efficiency, and regional economic integration. Authorities expect the entire corridor to be completed by 2026, subject to timely execution of remaining packages.
Travel Time Reduction and Strategic Connectivity
Once operational, the highway is expected to reduce travel time between Amaravati and Bengaluru from the current 11–12 hours to nearly six hours. This substantial reduction is projected to enhance passenger convenience while also improving freight movement between Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and key economic hubs. The corridor will provide faster access to Bengaluru, Vijayawada, and the east coast ports, strengthening supply chains and trade flows.
Project Scope, Alignment and District Coverage
The overall project length is estimated to range between 518 km and 624 km, comprising both greenfield and brownfield sections. The greenfield stretch alone covers approximately 342–343 km, extending from Kodikonda at the Andhra Pradesh–Karnataka border to Addanki or Muppavaram. The alignment passes through key districts such as Guntur, Prakasam, Kurnool and Kadapa, positioning the corridor as a backbone of intra-state and inter-state connectivity.
Brownfield Upgrades and Integrated Planning
In addition to new construction, brownfield upgrades form an integral part of the project. These include the Bengaluru–Kodikonda section along NH-44 and the Addanki–Vijayawada stretch on NH-16. This integrated approach ensures seamless connectivity between existing national highways and newly developed greenfield corridors, optimising network efficiency and reducing bottlenecks along high-traffic routes.
Execution, Investment and On-Ground Progress
The project involves an estimated investment of Rs 19,200–19,320 crore and has been divided into 14 construction packages. Leading infrastructure firms such as Megha Engineering & Infrastructures, KNR Constructions and Dilip Buildcon are executing various stretches. Extensive earthworks, embankment formation, bridge construction, culverts and asphalt laying are currently underway, supported by modern construction equipment to ensure quality and speed.
Regional Impact and Economic Significance
Prakasam district accounts for one of the longest stretches of the highway in Andhra Pradesh, spanning nearly 110 km. With land acquisition largely completed, construction activities have intensified across several mandals, generating local employment and ancillary economic activity. Once commissioned, the corridor is expected to support agriculture, industry, logistics and trade, reinforcing the region’s role in southern India’s economic landscape.
