₹758 Crore Approved for 22-Km Tiger Corridor Four-Lane Highway in Madhya Pradesh

Bhopal, April 6: The Central Government has approved ₹758 crore for the development of a four-lane highway on the 22-km Itarsi-Betul stretch in Madhya Pradesh, which serves as a crucial tiger corridor.

Project Highlights

Length: 22 km (Itarsi-Betul section, NH-46)
Cost: ₹758 crore
Wildlife crossings: 11 special underpasses and overpasses
Connectivity: Will directly connect Betul to Nagpur, linking North with South

Strategic Importance

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, stating: "The construction of the four-lane highway will transform the landscape and destiny of the Itarsi-Betul region."

The corridor will:

Accelerate regional development at four times the current pace
Improve accessibility to civic services and amenities
Shorten travel time
Improve road safety in hilly areas

Economic Benefits

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari noted on X that the region is a major hub for agriculture and rich in natural resources such as coal, copper, graphite, and lead-zinc. Widening this section to four lanes will:

Reduce transportation time for goods
Enhance safety
Make it easier for farmers to reach markets and mandis

Wildlife Protection

The project will include 11 special underpasses and overpasses to allow animals to cross the road safely, reducing road accidents and animal deaths in surrounding wildlife areas.

Tourism Boost

With the upgrade of this remaining 22 km stretch, the entire Gwalior-Betul Corridor will become a four-lane highway, boosting eco-tourism in:

Madhav National Park
Ratapani
Satpura Tiger Reserve