Ahmedabad, Oct 23 (NationPress) The Union Home and Cooperation Minister, Amit Shah, conducted the ceremonial laying of the foundation stone for the ambitious Rs 805-crore six-lane expansion of the Shantipura-Khodiyar GIDC road in Sanand. The event was graced by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, alongside local officials and esteemed guests.

This extensive 28.8-km highway project, managed by the Gujarat State Road Development Corporation (GSRDC), is designed to alleviate the rising traffic challenges in Sanand and its neighboring regions, driven by industrial expansion.

The current road accommodates an average of 43,014 vehicles each day, which has resulted in significant congestion on the existing four-lane infrastructure. The comprehensive project will feature: the six-laning of the entire 28.8 km stretch, the construction of service roads on both sides extending over 22.73 km, the widening of 13 smaller bridges, the creation of a six-lane elevated flyover and a three-lane right-turn flyover, and the addition of five new underpasses at pivotal points: Ularia, Telav (two locations), Sanand GIDC Gate, and Khodiyar GIDC, along with the construction or renovation of 172 culverts on connecting roads.

Once completed, this project is anticipated to greatly enhance connectivity between major industrial zones such as Sanand and Viramgam, as well as facilitate longer-distance travel to Surendranagar, Shankheshwar, Radhanpur, and Patan.

Officials indicated that the six-lane highway will improve transportation efficiency, minimize accidents, relieve congestion, and conserve both fuel and time for travelers.

After the foundation ceremony, Amit Shah and Chief Minister Patel wished local residents a happy New Year, receiving floral tributes and warm greetings from the public. Notable dignitaries present included MLA Kanu Patel, District Collector Sujit Kumar, District Development Officer Videh Khare, and several senior officials.

Later that day, Amit Shah is also expected to inaugurate a new residential complex for Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 220–247 crore, this new complex replaces the previous quarters in Sector 17 and features 216 modern 4BHK flats distributed across 12 nine-storey towers, each equipped with advanced amenities and furnishings.

The facility will also provide a variety of contemporary conveniences, including a health club, community hall, landscaped gardens, and a children’s play area.