Free Toll Roads on August 12 for Mom’s Day

The Thai Expressway Authority (EXAT) has decided to exempt toll charges along three highway corridors within Metropolitan Bangkok, covering 63 toll stations, on Mother’s Day, which falls on August 12, between 12:01 AM and midnight.

The toll-free routes are:

Chalerm Maha Nakhon Highway (21 toll stations)

Sri Raya Expressway (32 checkpoints)

Udon Rathayaburi Highway (10 toll stations)

On August 12, we celebrate the birth of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother and observe National Mother’s Day, recognized as an official public holiday announced by the Prime Minister’s Office.

This effort demonstrates the transportation ministry’s strategy, outlined in the updated concession contracts involving EXAT, Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited, and Northern Bangkok Expressway Co., Ltd.

The initiative seeks to lower transportation expenses for citizens and assist in reducing traffic jams at toll stations, according to EXAT.

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Minister Gadkari Greenlights $220M Vrindavan Bypass for Mathura Traffic Relief

Minister Gadkari Greenlights $220M Vrindavan Bypass for Mathura Traffic Relief

New Delhi [India], April 5 (ANI): Cabinet Minister for Road Transportation and
Highway
s
Nitin Gadkari
On Saturday, they approved a 15.34-kilometer-long, six-lane controlled-access road.
Vrindavan
The bypass initiative in the Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh has been approved with a budget of Rs 1,645.72 crores. This project aims to notably reduce journey times and alleviate traffic congestion surrounding the religious site.
Vrindavan
.

On X, Gadkari mentioned that the project would be carried out using the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM). This approach combines both public and private funding to speed up implementation while minimizing the government’s fiscal exposure. The bypass will ensure uninterrupted connection to three key highways: National
Highway
44 (NH-44), the
Yamuna Expressway
, and NH-530B.

The construction involves a 15.34-kilometer-long, six-lane access-controlled roadway.
Vrindavan
The bypass project for the Mathura district in Uttar Pradesh has received approval at a cost of Rs 1,645.72 crores. This includes preliminary actions such as land acquisition under the Hybrid Annuity Model, according to Gadkari’s statement on X.

“The construction of the
Vrindavan
The bypass will offer straight access to NH-44.
Yamuna Expressway
Additionally, with NH-530B, the journey time will be shortened from 1.5 hours to just 15 minutes. This alternate route aims to decrease traffic congestion within the area.
Vrindavan
and enhance effortless access to
Vrindavan
By offering connection to the parking facilities suggested by the state government, ”
Nitin Gadkari
said.

The initiative will ease entry into sacred sites located in Mathura.
Vrindavan
Additionally, this will improve connections across the industrial corridors, he mentioned.

Earlier on March 25,
Nitin Gadkari
mentioned that within the coming two years, India’s road conditions will surpass those of the United States.

“I believe the road sector doesn’t have any issues at all. This year and next year will bring such substantial improvements that previously I mentioned how we aimed for our highways to rival those of the United States; however, now I can confidently state that within just two years, our highway system will surpass that of the U.S.,” he stated additionally.

Gadkari expressed certainty that India will overtake the US in both electric vehicle adoption and production within the next half-decade.

The Union Minister outlined the activities of the ministry and mentioned that the distances between cities like Delhi, Dehradun, Jaipur, or Bangalore would significantly decrease. (ANI)

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).

NHMP Issues Travel Advisory as Post-Eid Traffic Surge Looms

Following the end of Eid festivities, which saw a significant rise in vehicular movement on motorways and national highways, the National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) have released a travel warning.

NHMP has advised drivers to follow key safety precautions for the security and comfort of travelers. Those utilizing public transportation should inform the NHMP hotline at 130 about instances of overcrowding or excessive fares.

To prepare for the anticipated high volume of traffic, NHMP has bolstered its presence through increased staffing and more frequent patrols along major roads. Furthermore, they are conducting road safety presentations at every toll plaza to inform drivers about safe driving habits.

Travelers encountering any issues or emergencies can obtain help by getting in touch with the Motorway Police hotline. The NHMP continues to be dedicated to providing a safe and seamless journey for all motorists.

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Malaysia Takes Green Light on £9 Billion Lower Thames Crossing Project

Malaysia Takes Green Light on £9 Billion Lower Thames Crossing Project

Proposals for a £9 billion road tunnel connecting Kent and Essex have officially received governmental approval.

The much-discussed Lower Thames Crossing, featuring a 14.5-mile roadway with a 2.6-mile tunnel under the River Thames, received development consent from Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander on Tuesday morning, as stated by the Planning Inspectorate.

The work on the project has been continuing since 2009, having consumed more than £1 billion of public funds. The efforts have faced numerous delays and controversies from start to finish.

The objective of the Lower Thames Crossing project is to ease the congestion at the Dartford Crossing by developing a new motorway-standard route.

This connection between the A2 and M2 in Kent with the A13 and M25 in Essex would occur through what could become Britain’s longest road tunnel.

It is anticipated that this could almost double road capacity across the Thames east of
London
.

National Highways said the government is ‘currently exploring private finance options for the project’.

The construction might begin next year, with the anticipation of the new road opening in the early 2030s.



This route aims to ease traffic on the orbital M25, connecting with it close to South Ockenden in Essex. Additionally, it will link up with the M2 near Rochester in Kent.

Matt Palmer, who serves as the national highways executive director for the Lower Thames Crossing project, referred to it as “one of the most significant infrastructure initiatives in the United Kingdom.”

He said: ‘It will unlock growth with quicker, safer and more reliable journeys, and redraw the blueprint for building major projects in a net-zero future by scaling up the use of low-carbon construction, and leaving a legacy of green spaces, green skills.

‘Ours plans were crafted based on input from the local community and then fine-tuned through thorough scrutiny conducted by impartial specialists.’

Mr Palmer stated that National Highways is dedicated to ‘collaborating with our neighbors’ to construct the crossing in a manner that provides them ‘chances to work and acquire new abilities while minimizing negative effects.’

“We are prepared for immediate action and have secured our delivery partners. Today’s decision enables us to collaborate with the government on securing funds and begin thorough planning, which will allow us to commence construction at the earliest opportunity,” he stated.

David Wells, CEO of the trade association Logistics UK, stated that the announcement came as welcome news for businesses nationwide “held back by bottlenecks when navigating the Thames,” he commented positively.

‘The industry stands unified in its support for this crucial trade route,’ stated Mr Wells.

Jim Dickson, the Labour Member of Parliament for Dartford, stated that his constituency has been plagued by ‘constant traffic jams’ due to former administrations ‘avoiding’ the choice regarding the Lower Thames Crossing.

“This choice will unleash economic expansion throughout the nation and at last provide a resolution to the traffic turmoil confronted by my constituents every day,” he stated.

The Thurrock Council in Essex has persistently objected to the initiative, highlighting adverse effects on economics, society, and the environment. However, the head of Dartford Borough Council in Kent supports the plan.

Local activists from the Thames Crossing Action Group assert it would be ‘extremely damaging and detrimental,’ and an unnecessary expenditure of funds.

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FG Launches Access Road for 2nd Niger Bridge; Umahi Commends Oborevwori’s Delta Infrastructure Push

The federal government has started building a 17.5-kilometer dual carriageway to improve access to the Second Niger Bridge.

The ceremonial ground-breaking occurred on Monday, marking considerable advancement in tackling the area’s transport issues.

At the event, President Bola Tinubu was represented by Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, who underscored their commitment to enhancing road infrastructure, ensuring public safety, and boosting trade and economic activities across Nigeria.

The inauguration of the Second Niger Bridge for public use in December 2022 was a crucial milestone in improving connectivity between the Southeast region and other parts of Nigeria.

President Tinubu stated that this bridge is a significant infrastructural development essential for connecting the Asaba-Benin and Onitsha-Enugu dual carriageways, which are vital highways in Nigeria.

He emphasized that the access road initiative highlights the government’s dedication to promoting infrastructure advancement and boosting economic progress.

“A strong and adaptable economy depends on up-to-date infrastructure, improved public facilities, and enhanced social services,” he noted.

The President additionally pointed out that advanced transportation systems improve mobility, generate employment prospects, boost tourism, ease the circulation of products and services, and raise general quality of life.

Highlighting the significance of investing in infrastructure, Tinubu pointed out that governments across the globe acknowledge the necessity of strong infrastructures to foster economic and industrial growth.

He admitted that Nigeria’s present infrastructure falls short of its development goals and restated the administration’s commitment to upgrade highways, rail systems, and water routes under the New Hope Initiative.

Upon launching the initiative formally, President Tinubu praised the Delta and Anambra state administrations for working together effectively.

He requested patience and collaboration from drivers throughout the construction phase, guaranteeing that the contractors have the competence to finish the work punctually and with top-quality outcomes.

During his introductory speech, Governor Oborevwori praised President Tinubu’s commitment to developing infrastructure throughout Nigeria.

He pointed out the concurrent launch of the Benin-Asapa Expressway rehabilitation project, highlighting the key significance of these initiatives for enhancing regional connections and boosting trade.

“These infrastructure advancements are crucial for enhancing trade and economic activities. On behalf of the residents of Delta State, I express our sincere appreciation to the President for his outstanding leadership and dedication to revitalizing infrastructure,” said Oborevwori.

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, commended Governor Oborevwori for his commitment to sustaining tranquility and fostering development within Delta State.

He recognized the state government’s efforts as crucial additions to the federal highway upgrades, substantially lightening the load on the federal administration.

“Your commitment to the well-being of your constituents and your remarkable initiatives showcase your forward-thinking leadership. Delta State has transformed into a bustling hub of activity, and I am pleased with the continuous progress,” noted Umahi.

Engineer Olufunsho Adebiyi, who serves as the Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Works, stated that the new access road will establish an essential transport connection between Delta State and Anambra State.

He characterized the pathway as a crucial link that will boost interconnectivity among various communities, easing traffic jams and fostering eco-friendly growth within the area.

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).