In a major step towards easing traffic congestion in Zirakpur, the National Highways Authority of India is set to award two key greenfield highway projects, including the Zirakpur Panchkula bypass and its connecting spur to the Ambala Chandigarh Expressway.
Officials indicated that letters of award will be issued to the lowest bidders, following which construction activity is expected to begin soon. The two projects, forming part of the larger Tricity ring road network, involve an estimated investment of Rs 3,342 crore.
A total of 19 bids were received for the projects. For the six lane Zirakpur Panchkula bypass, RKCPL Limited emerged as the lowest bidder, quoting Rs 1,380 crore, slightly above the base estimate. Competing bidders included Gawar Construction and GR Infraprojects.
For the 10.3 km spur project, Ceigall Infra Projects Private Limited secured the lowest bid at Rs 603 crore.
The bypass is slated for completion within two years, while the spur is expected to be ready in 18 months. If work commences as scheduled, the spur could be operational by late 2027, followed by the bypass in early 2028.
Zirakpur has long struggled with heavy congestion due to its strategic location connecting multiple highways. The planned bypass will create a dedicated six lane corridor with elevated stretches and grade separators, enabling through traffic to avoid the town.
The spur will further enhance connectivity by diverting traffic from the Ambala and Delhi side directly onto the bypass, reducing pressure on local roads.
Officials said the projects are a key component of the Rs 12,000 crore Tricity ring road, aimed at easing traffic flow, reducing travel time and strengthening connectivity across the region.