Cabinet approves construction of 4 Lanning of Badnawar-Petlawad-Thandla-Timarwani section of (NH-752D) of Delhi Mumbai expressway in Madhya Pradesh on Hybrid Annuity Mode worth Rs.3,839.42 crore

**Executive Summary** The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the construction of an 80.45 km, 4-lane section of NH-752D as part of the Delhi Mumbai Expressway (DME) in Madhya Pradesh. This project, valued at Rs. 3,839.42 crore, will be implemented on a Hybrid Annuity Mode. The primary objective is to improve travel efficiency and reduce travel time by approximately one hour, with construction anticipated to be completed within 24 months, followed by a 17-year concession period. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Project Approval:** The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the 4-laning of the Badnawar-Petlawad-Thandla-Timarwani section of NH-752D. * **Project Scope and Cost:** The project covers a length of 80.45 kilometers with a total capital cost of Rs. 3,839.42 crore. * **Objective:** The primary purpose is to improve travel efficiency and reduce travel time between Ujjain and the Timrawani interchange at the Delhi Mumbai Expressway (DME) by approximately one hour. * **Connectivity Improvement:** This upgrade will establish direct 4-lane connectivity from Ujjain to the DME at Timrawani interchange, enabling speeds of 80-100 kmph. * **Regional Importance:** The corridor serves as the shortest route for traffic from Gujarat and Maharashtra to Ujjain, enhancing inter-state connectivity. * **Tribal Region Development:** The section traverses tribal regions of Dhar and Jhabua districts, with parts of Dhar covered under the Aspirational Blocks Programme. * **Economic Impact:** The project aims to reduce logistics costs, facilitate efficient movement of goods, and strengthen access to industrial hubs like Indore, Pithampur, Ujjain, and Dewas, thereby contributing to the economic development of Dhar and Jhabua districts. * **Key Features:** * Length: 80.45 kms (Greenfield + Brownfield) Corridor * Pavement Type: Flexible Pavement * Configuration: 4-Lane * Major Bridges: 06 * Minor Bridges: 34 * Road Under Bridge (RUB): 01 * VUP/LVUP/SVUP: 9 / 29 / 04 Nos. * Construction Period: 24 months * Concession Period: 17 Years (2 years construction + 15 years O&M) **Impact Analysis** **Businesses in Dhar and Jhabua Districts** * **Impact:** Enhanced access to industrial hubs and improved logistics will lead to reduced operating costs for businesses and facilitate the efficient movement of raw materials and finished goods. * **Action Required:** Businesses can leverage the improved infrastructure for better supply chain management and potential expansion. **Commuters and Travelers** * **Impact:** Significant reduction in travel time (approximately one hour) between Ujjain and the Timrawani interchange on the DME, with improved safety and uninterrupted traffic movement. * **Action Required:** Travelers can anticipate faster and more efficient journeys along this route. **State Government of Madhya Pradesh** * **Impact:** Improvement of basic infrastructure, enhanced inter-state connectivity, and contribution to the overall economic development of the Dhar and Jhabua districts. * **Action Required:** The state government is a key beneficiary and facilitator of this project, contributing to regional growth. **Logistics and Transportation Sector** * **Impact:** Reduced logistics costs due to faster transit times and improved connectivity to major economic centers. * **Action Required:** Companies in the logistics sector can optimize their operations and potentially expand their reach.

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