Center Approves Six-Lane ARVOOBI Between Mangalgiri and Krishna Canal
The Railways Ministry, through the South Central Railway, has given the green light for a new six-lane road-over-bridge (ARVOOBI) project between Mangalgiri and Krishna Canal stations on the E13 extension corridor. With an estimated cost of Rs 112 crore, the project is set to significantly enhance road-rail connectivity in Andhra Pradesh, tying the capital region closer to the 16th National Highway (NH 16) and easing traffic bottlenecks around Amaravati.
Scope, Alignment, and Strategic Significance
The ARVOOBI will span the stretch between Mangalgiri and Krishna Canal stations, forming a vital link on the E13 extension road corridor. Officials say the six-lane construction will connect Amaravati with NH 16, enabling smoother vehicular movement for long-distance travelers and local commuters alike. The bridge is intended to be integrated with the major road network feeding Amaravati, the state’s capital region, and is viewed as a key piece in the broader transport spine that supports ongoing urban development in the area.
Financial Arrangements and Administrative Details
According to the Railway Ministry, the project will be funded entirely by the Railways, reflecting the department’s commitment to improving regional access without imposing a financial burden on the state. While initial plans had contemplated four lanes, the state government advocated for six lanes to accommodate projected traffic growth in the Amaravati corridor. The central approval paves the way for the formal design and construction processes to proceed under SCR oversight.
Design, Tendering, and Next Steps
Before tendering can begin, several preparatory steps must be completed. These include finalizing the design approvals and standard roadway drawings, along with other alignment verifications. Railway officials from SCR indicate that bidding will commence only after these prerequisites are satisfied. The project is framed as part of a broader strategy to connect the Chennai–Howrah corridor via Vijayawada, reflecting the emphasis on coordinated road and rail infrastructure to support growth in the region.
Expected Impact on Traffic and Development
Officials anticipate the six-lane ARVOOBI will alleviate traffic pressure on the Mangalgiri–Krishna Canal axis and facilitate better access to Amaravati. By providing a smoother cross-connection between the capital region and NH 16, the bridge is expected to reduce travel times for daily commuters and improve freight movement. The enhancement is seen as a catalyst for ongoing development in the Amaravati area, reinforcing connectivity to national corridors and supporting future urban expansion.
Context and Outlook
AMID ongoing infrastructure push across the state, central cooperation has gained momentum for multiple rail and highway projects in Andhra Pradesh. The approval for the ARVOOBI project aligns with a broader narrative of central-state collaboration that has gained traction in recent months, with stakeholders hoping these measures accelerate Amaravati’s growth and integrate the capital more effectively into the national transport network.
