Upcoming Keshkal tunnel likely to improve connectivity between Chhattisgarh and South India
Bastar: According to an official release, the planned Keshkal Tunnel is anticipated to enhance communication between Chhattisgarh and South India, cutting the 12-hour journey from Raipur to Visakhapatnam to seven hours.
Additionally, by providing a quicker and safer alternative to the century-old, dangerous mountain routes, the tunnel is anticipated to boost local businesses, commerce, and tourism, the statement said. Travelers have been battling the twisting and challenging roads of Bastar’s rocky valleys for years.
But a new hope is emerging: the Keshkal Tunnel, which would connect South India and Chhattisgarh directly. With its quicker, safer, and more comfortable travel, this state-of-the-art road tunnel is poised to revolutionize the local economy, tourism, and transportation.
Nowadays, it takes around 12 hours to go from Raipur to Visakhapatnam. When this tunnel is finished, the trip will only take seven hours. About 10 meters of rock are chiseled each day to speed up the building process. The region’s farmers, merchants, and tourist sector would all greatly benefit from this increased connectedness. The tunnel’s effect on Bastar tourism will be one of its greatest benefits.
The area is already well-known for its cultural legacy and scenic splendor, but because of its challenging topography, it has remained mostly inaccessible. Major tourist destinations, including Chitrakote Waterfall, Tirathgarh Waterfall, Kutumsar Caves, and the well-known Danteshwari Temple, will be easier to reach with a quicker and safer path, which would greatly strengthen the local economy, the statement added.
The tunnel will also provide new commercial and industrial routes. Farmers in Bastar and Chhattisgarh would have easy access to the large markets of South India for their handicrafts, forest goods, and agricultural production.
Constructed in 1910, the ancient road will soon be obsolete. A broad, secure tunnel will take the place of the hazardous mountain routes, guaranteeing safer and more convenient travel. Bastar’s population will benefit from faster growth, more commerce, and better connection as a result of this development.
By March 2026, the administration hopes to eradicate Naxalism from Bastar. Improved roads will make it easier to go to hospitals, schools, and jobs, opening the door to regional peace and development.
