The Gujarat government has approved a major road infrastructure programme aimed at improving access to tourist destinations across south Gujarat. The chief minister, Bhupendra Patel, sanctioned around Rs 11,850 mn for widening and upgrading key roads under the first phase of the Surat Economic Region (SER) plan. The funding is intended to strengthen transport links and support regional mobility.

Projects will be carried out across Surat, Navsari, Tapi, Valsad and Dang districts with a focus on enhancing access to beaches, forests and pilgrimage circuits. Officials indicated that the initiative targets major tourism locations, eco-tourism sites and heritage routes that attract visitors from within the state. The programme is designed to improve journey times and make sites more accessible for family travel and small tour operators.

Several stretches will be widened and reinforced, with some upgraded into four-lane and six-lane highways to accommodate higher traffic volumes. Bypass roads are planned around selected towns to reduce congestion and improve traffic movement, which officials expect will lower transit delays. The works will include strengthening of pavements and drainage improvements to enhance durability during monsoon seasons.

The initial phase will prioritise corridors that connect urban centres such as Ahmedabad, Vadodara and Surat with the coastal and forested districts, aiming to ease weekend travel for city residents. Authorities have outlined timelines and budgeting under the SER framework and will coordinate with district administrations for land acquisition and contractor mobilisation. The scheme is expected to integrate with broader economic plans for the region.

Officials expect the upgraded network to stimulate local tourism economies by improving market access for hospitality businesses and small vendors, and by encouraging longer stays. Improved road safety and reduced congestion are projected to lower travel costs and support more reliable bus and coach services between towns. The investment is presented as part of efforts to balance regional development and to attract private sector participation in allied services.

Implementation will require phased scheduling and monitoring to ensure timely completion while managing environmental and social safeguards. Progress reports will be regularly shared with stakeholders.