Indore-Khandwa Highway Update: Three NATM Tunnels Near Completion, Flyover Opens at Datonda

Three Large Tunnels Nearing Completion on Indore-Khandwa Highway Project

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is making major strides on the Indore-Ichhapur highway project in Madhya Pradesh. A critical section of the 33 km stretch between Tejaaji Nagar and Balwara now features three large tunnels under construction — each built using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM). These tunnels are designed to handle future traffic needs and ensure enhanced safety for all road users.

1.Fully automatic safety systems

2.Emergency barricades that close instantly in case of incidents

3.Built-in fire-fighting systems for enhanced tunnel safety

Gantry-Based Tunnel Lining Process in Progress

To reinforce the tunnel walls, a gantry system with 42 windows is being used for cement-concrete lining. The process is carefully engineered:

1.The gantry, placed on a base similar to railway tracks, completes 12.5 meters of lining per day

2.A 2.5-meter gap between the gantry and tunnel wall is filled with reinforcement bars

3.Concrete is poured through the windows and monitored closely to ensure precision

4.The process continues window by window, providing a strong and uniform lining throughout

According to Sumesh Banjhal, Project Director at NHAI, this method ensures structural strength and safety within all three tunnels. The base road structure inside the tunnels has also been completed.

Flyover and Underpass Updates

Alongside the tunnel construction, several other key components of the highway project are progressing well:

1.Traffic has already started on the newly constructed flyover at Datonda

2.The Simrol Bypass, Simrol Underpass, and another underpass near Datonda are expected to open before the monsoon season

These upgrades are designed to ease congestion and improve connectivity in the region.

Transforming Road Infrastructure in Central India

With the development of these tunnels, flyovers, and bypasses, the Indore-Khandwa highway is becoming a model for modern, safe, and efficient highway construction in India. This project reflects NHAI's ongoing commitment to building future-ready infrastructure that prioritizes public safety and sustainable engineering practices.