Centre Reviewing Elevated NH 163 Corridor Through Eturnagaram Sanctuary

Warangal: The Union government is actively examining a proposal to construct an elevated corridor on National Highway 163 (NH 163) through the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary in Mulugu district. Union minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari confirmed that the project is under review to balance high-speed connectivity with the protection of forest ecology and wildlife habitats.

The confirmation came in response to a request from Mahbubabad MP Porika Balram Naik, who sought an elevated road stretch from Pasra to Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary to prevent accidents and safeguard the fragile forest environment.

Minister Gadkari said he had directed officials to conduct a detailed technical examination of the proposal and assured that appropriate action would be taken after the review is completed.

At present, the NH 163 stretch passing through the sanctuary poses a threat to wildlife due to speeding vehicles. Officials believe an elevated corridor would allow animals to move freely beneath the structure, reducing the risk of roadkill. It would also ensure smoother traffic flow for residents without the need for strict night-time road closures. The proposed design is expected to include measures to minimise noise and light pollution that could disturb forest life.

Balram Naik, who has long advocated improved infrastructure in the region, was earlier instrumental in the construction of a 1.2-km bridge across the Godavari River at a cost of ₹230 crore. The project reduced travel distance significantly and boosted tourism to destinations such as Bogatha Waterfalls in Wazedu mandal.

The proposed Pasra-Eturnagaram elevated corridor is seen as a key step in strengthening road connectivity between Telangana and neighbouring states such as Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra, while keeping environmental conservation at the forefront.