National Highways Authority of India on 15 June, 2026 organized a Media visit to the Thoppur Ghat Realignment Project site on the Dharmapuri - Salem section of NH 44. The visit provided an update on the progress of the Rs. 905 crore project, which is aimed at improving road safety and traffic flow on one of Tamil Nadu's busiest highway stretches.
The 6.6 km long project is expected to be completed by March 2028. It involves widening the existing four lane highway into a six lane road, improving the alignment of the ghat section and constructing elevated structures to make travel safer and smoother.
Speaking to Media representatives, K. Srinivasulu, Project Director, PIU Salem, said that around 41 per cent of the project work has been completed and construction is progressing as planned. He said nearly 60,000 vehicles use this stretch every day, making it one of the most important highway links connecting Bengaluru, Salem and Madurai.
He explained that the Thoppur Ghat section has witnessed several accidents over the years due to steep slopes and sharp curves. According to official records, nearly 80 fatalities were reported on this stretch between 2018 and 2025. The project is designed to address these issues by improving the road alignment and reducing the steepness of the ghat section.
A key feature of the project is an elevated corridor supported by 83 piers, some of which are nearly 50 metres high. The project also includes the construction of grade separated junctions at key locations to ensure smoother and safer movement of vehicles.
Srinivasulu said the improved road design will reduce the existing steep gradient and allow vehicles to travel more safely. The upgraded highway is being designed for speeds of up to 80 kmph.
He also highlighted ongoing road safety measures, including the installation of red thermoplastic table top markings over a 600 meter stretch to encourage drivers to slow down, improve driver awareness and enhance road safety.
Once completed, the Thoppur Ghat Realignment Project is expected to significantly reduce accidents, improve traffic flow and provide faster and safer connectivity for both passenger and freight vehicles travelling on the Bengaluru Salem Madurai corridor.