Bhuj, Gujarat,Dholavira: In a major infrastructure push for Gujarat’s Kutch district, the central government has announced a significant highway development project that will strengthen connectivity in the region and support tourism and economic growth. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has approved the upgradation of a key highway corridor that links several remote areas of Kutch, including the world-renowned heritage site Dholavira.
The project involves the improvement of the Lakhpat–Gaduli–Zara–Hajipir–Khavda–Kandwan–Dholavira section of National Highway 754K. The 165.58-kilometre-long stretch will be upgraded to a two-lane highway with paved shoulders, ensuring smoother and safer travel across this strategically important region. The government has sanctioned ₹650.42 crore for the project, marking one of the largest recent infrastructure investments in the border district.
📢 गुजरात 🛣️
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) March 10, 2026
गुजरात के कच्छ जिले में राष्ट्रीय राजमार्ग-754K के 165.58 किलोमीटर लंबाई वाले लखपत-गडुली-ज़ारा-हाजीपीर-खावड़ा-कंदवान-धोलावीरा खंड को पेव्ड शोल्डर कॉन्फ़िगरेशन के साथ 2-लेन में बनाने के लिए 650.42 करोड़ रुपए की लागत के साथ स्वीकृति दी गई है।
इस परियोजना से कच्छ…
Strengthening Connectivity in Border Areas
The development of this highway is expected to significantly improve connectivity between remote parts of Kutch and the rest of Gujarat. Many villages in the region currently rely on limited road infrastructure, which makes transportation difficult and time-consuming. With the upgrade, people living in these areas will benefit from faster travel, better access to essential services, and improved trade opportunities.
The highway corridor also holds strategic importance because it runs through border areas near the Indo-Pakistan frontier. Improved road infrastructure will enhance mobility and logistics in these regions while supporting local communities.
Boost for Tourism in Dholavira and Kutch
Tourism is expected to receive a major boost once the project is completed. Dholavira, one of the most prominent archaeological sites of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts visitors from across India and around the world. However, reaching the site has often been challenging due to limited road infrastructure.
With the highway expansion, travel to Dholavira and other tourist destinations in Kutch will become faster and more convenient. Events such as the famous Rann Utsav festival draw thousands of tourists every year, and improved road connectivity will make it easier for visitors to explore the region’s cultural and historical landmarks.
Support for Local Industries and Trade
Apart from tourism, the highway upgrade will also benefit key industries in Kutch. The region is known for its salt production and mineral resources, which contribute significantly to the local economy. A better road network will enable faster transportation of goods and raw materials, reducing logistics costs and improving supply chain efficiency.
Businesses operating in the area are expected to gain from smoother transport routes, which can help expand trade and attract further investments to the region.
Improved Safety and Reduced Travel Costs
Currently, the existing road section faces heavy traffic and has been prone to accidents due to its limited capacity and infrastructure. Upgrading the route to a two-lane highway with paved shoulders will ease congestion and improve road safety.
The modernization will also reduce vehicle operating costs and fuel consumption, benefiting both commercial transporters and everyday commuters. Travelers will be able to move more efficiently and safely across the region.
Also read: PM Narendra Modi Inaugurates Samrat Samprati Museum at Koba Tirth in Gandhinagar on Mahavir Jayanti
A Step Toward Regional Development
The Dholavira highway upgrade project is expected to play a key role in transforming transportation in Kutch. By improving connectivity, supporting tourism, and strengthening local industries, the project will contribute to the overall economic development of the district.
Once completed, the new highway will not only make travel to Dholavira easier but will also serve as a vital corridor connecting remote border regions with major cities and economic hubs in Gujarat.