Bhubaneswar, Dec, 16: The under-construction Raipur–Visakhapatnam economic corridor is expected to be fully operational by December 2026. Built at a cost of ₹16,482 crore, this corridor will accelerate development in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh. The project will enhance infrastructure in remote areas and improve livelihoods along the route. It will reduce the travel distance by approximately 137 km and save 7 hours of travel time.
The 6-lane greenfield corridor will connect Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, reducing travel time by 7 hours and distance by 132 km. It is expected to open to the public in the 2026–27 fiscal year. The highway is being constructed with Grade-speed design for 100 km/h, ensuring fast and safe travel.
The corridor will significantly improve connectivity for tribal-dominated and remote districts such as Dhamtari, Keshavar, Jakri (Chhattisgarh), Boriguma, Nabarangpur, Koraput (Odisha), and Ramayitpuram, Araku (Andhra Pradesh). The project will boost transportation, trade, and logistics, benefiting millions of people dependent on these areas.
Developed with a focus on Prime Minister’s Gati Shakti vision, the highway will link the Visakhapatnam port and Chennai–Kolkata corridor, promoting industrial growth in Chhattisgarh and Odisha. It will provide better connectivity for industrial centers, faster exports, streamlined supply chains, and enhanced business efficiency, improving logistics capabilities.
The corridor will also foster tourism development, generate new employment opportunities, and boost real estate growth, thereby accelerating economic growth in the region. Transportation of goods from Raipur to Visakhapatnam will become faster and more efficient.
Local residents have already noticed a significant increase in land value since the start of the greenfield highway project. A farmer from Vijayanagaram district expressed optimism about the new corridor, noting that villages and farmers along the route are experiencing increased convenience and economic benefits.