NHAI Takes Charge of Two Major Expressway Projects in Rajasthan

16 Jul 2025 CW Team

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken over the construction of two major expressway projects in Rajasthan—Jaipur-to-Pachpadra and Bikaner-to-Kotputli—which were originally proposed by a state government agency following the previous budget announcement.

Officials explained that both corridors were identified as highly viable due to the substantial traffic volumes they already handle. The Jaipur-to-Pachpadra greenfield expressway, spanning approximately 350 km, was initially planned at an estimated cost of ₹11,492 crore and was set to pass through Kishangarh, Ajmer, and Jodhpur. Similarly, the 295-km Bikaner-to-Kotputli expressway was expected to cost around Rs 108.39 billion. Both projects have now officially been handed over to NHAI for execution.

These two highways are part of nine newly introduced expressway projects. The Jaipur-to-Pachpadra route had already been transferred to the national authority, and the Bikaner-to-Kotputli corridor has now also been added to its scope.

Regarding the Bikaner-to-Kotputli expressway, the official noted that while the new route would reduce the distance by only 45 km, it would significantly cut travel time—from the current six hours to just three—due to higher permissible vehicle speeds on the expressway. Additionally, it is expected to enhance connectivity to major urban centres such as Noida, Gurugram, Delhi, and Agra–Mathura. The existing route between Bikaner and Kotputli spans around 340 km and takes roughly six hours to traverse.

Another official pointed out that the direct Jaipur-to-Pachpadra connection would also shorten travel time. The current route covers about 426 km and takes around 7.5 hours, which is expected to reduce significantly with the completion of the new expressway.

News source: MSN

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..