New Delhi: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated the planning process for the proposed four-laning of the Ramanathapuram–Dhanushkodi section of National Highway-87 in Tamil Nadu, inviting bids for the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the key coastal highway project.

The project involves widening an approximately 74-kilometre stretch connecting Ramanathapuram to Dhanushkodi, located at the southern tip of Rameswaram Island. The upgrade is aimed at improving connectivity to the coastal region, facilitating tourism and economic activity, and enhancing overall road safety.

The DPR consultancy will be awarded through international competitive bidding, and the selected firm will be given nine months to complete the assignment. The report will determine the technical, financial, and economic feasibility of expanding the existing highway into a modern four-lane corridor.

As part of the scope of work, the consultant will carry out detailed surveys, traffic and alignment studies, highway design, and preparation of engineering plans for bridges, cross-drainage structures, junction improvements, and service roads. The assignment will also include road safety audits, environmental impact assessment, and social feasibility studies, along with the use of advanced survey technologies such as LiDAR mapping and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) for underground utility detection.

The last date for online submission of proposals is April 27, 2026. Technical bids will be opened on April 28, 2026. Interested firms must be registered on the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ INFRACON portal.

The Ramanathapuram–Dhanushkodi stretch is considered strategically important as it connects the mainland with one of Tamil Nadu’s southernmost coastal regions, known for religious tourism, fishing activity, and heritage sites. The proposed four-laning is expected to improve travel time, increase capacity, and provide a safer and more efficient route for commuters and visitors.

After completion of the DPR and approval of the project, NHAI will decide the mode of execution, which may include the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model or a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework. DeshBharat