Gujarat’s Dholavira–Santalpur Highway To Undergo Major Upgrade To Improve Kutch Connectivity

In a significant infrastructure push for Gujarat, the Union government has approved the upgradation of a 106.10 km stretch of National Highway-754K from Dholavira to Santalpur into a two-lane highway with paved shoulders.

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari took to X to announce the approval of the project.

With an estimated cost of Rs 575.07 crore, it is poised to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth in the Kutch region.

Gadkari highlighted that this section of NH-754K serves as a “crucial strategic link” connecting the remote and arid landscapes of the Rann of Kutch with the broader state network, integrating seamlessly with National Highway-27, which forms part of the East-West Corridor.

The upgrade is expected to deliver a significant boost to tourism, particularly benefiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Dholavira, renowned for its archaeological and historical significance.

Additionally, the improved highway will support logistics and transport for major mineral and salt industries operating in the Kutch region.

Currently, the existing road suffers from congestion and frequent accidents, posing challenges to commuters and freight movement alike.

Gadkari emphasised that transforming the route into a 2-lane highway with paved shoulders will “reduce traffic congestion, enhance road safety, and lower vehicle operating costs.”

This, they said, would translate into a smoother passenger experience and better fuel mileage for vehicles.

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