The Centre has approved the four-laning of the first 20.2 km stretch of National Highway 69 (NH-69) from Sira to Badavanahalli, the Union Minister of State for Railways V Somanna said on Thursday. He said the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has sanctioned the work at a cost of Rs 5,489.8 mn and that the tendering process has been completed. Work orders have been issued and construction on the section will begin shortly. The ministry gave the approval as part of an effort to upgrade strategic arterial routes in the region. The remaining 32 km stretch from Badavanahalli to Bairenahalli of NH-69 is estimated at Rs 10,000 mn and is in the final stage of approval, the minister said, adding that it is expected to receive clearance soon. Once approvals are secured, contracts for the remainder are expected to be awarded to continue the four-laning drive. Authorities indicated that procurement and clearance steps are being fast-tracked to expedite delivery. Officials added that environmental clearances and land acquisition processes remain key near-term steps. Once completed, the full 52 km Sira–Badavanahalli–Bairenahalli corridor will be developed as a four-lane highway at a total investment of Rs 15,850 mn. The project is expected to improve road connectivity across Central Karnataka, North Karnataka and Kalyana Karnataka and to strengthen links to Tirupati and Chennai. Officials noted that the upgraded corridor will support regional mobility and facilitate smoother freight movement. Planners expect the improved corridor to reduce journey times and to support local commerce without compromising safety standards. The development follows related work to decongest Sira and complements local infrastructure interventions, authorities said. Implementation will be overseen by the ministry and project progress will depend on timely clearances and contractor mobilisation. The ministry has indicated monitoring mechanisms to ensure adherence to timelines and quality standards. Regular progress reports will be issued and stakeholders will be kept informed during construction phases.