GMR

Planning Your Next Road Trip?
How Indian Roadways Have Transformed by 2025

07 April 2025


There is something inherently thrilling about hitting the open road in India. Whether it is a spontaneous weekend getaway or a long-planned cross-country journey, the road trip has found a special place in the hearts of Indian travellers. But if you’ve been driving across India recently, you’ve likely noticed something remarkable: the roads have changed.

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Not just in terms of mileage, but in quality, connectivity, and experience.

In the last decade, infrastructure development in India has transformed the way we travel, boosting local economies, and redefining the landscape of urban infrastructure. Strategic investments in national and state highways, expressways, and ring roads have turned once-dreaded road journeys into seamless experiences.

Road travel, now increasingly preferred for both short and long distances, has become a key enabler in the development of tourism in India. Families, solo travellers, and adventure seekers alike are packing their bags, choosing the comfort and flexibility of road trips.

And at the forefront of this evolution is the GMR Group, helping pave the way, literally, with world-class infrastructure projects that are setting new benchmarks.

Building Roads, Boosting Journeys

As one of India’s leading infrastructure companies, GMR Group has played a vital role in this transformation. Known for its deep commitment to excellence in Transportation & Urban Infrastructure, GMR has undertaken several marquee projects that are now crucial connectors in the national road network.

Let’s take a closer look:

Ambala–Chandigarh Expressway: Northern India’s Speed Lane

A lifeline for commuters and tourists alike, the Ambala–Chandigarh Expressway is a high-speed corridor that connects Haryana and Punjab’s major urban centres. Managed by GMR Highways, this stretch is more than just a road—it is an economic catalyst.

This project is a testament to how infrastructure development in India is becoming increasingly future-ready—with features like efficient tolling, smart signage, and emergency response systems.

Ambala–Chandigarh Expressway

Chennai Outer Ring Road (ORR): The Southern Connector

The Chennai ORR, another flagship GMR project, is a strategic bypass that connects key national highways while circling the urban sprawl of Chennai. Before the ORR, getting through Chennai was a bottleneck that most road trippers dreaded. Today, the outer ring road offers a much-needed alternative that speeds up access to Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, and the scenic East Coast Road.

Small towns and coastal retreats that were once hard to reach are now comfortably accessible and supporting local economies in the process.

Pochampalli Expressway: Gateway to Telangana’s Growth

Pochampalli might not have been on many travel itineraries a few years ago, but with the development of the Pochampalli Expressway, that is rapidly changing. This modern, well-engineered road developed by GMR has become a critical link in Telangana’s growing economic and tourism landscape.

Whether you are heading to the historic city of Warangal, exploring rural Telangana, or connecting to Andhra Pradesh, this expressway enhances travel efficiency and safety.

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Plastic waste used in road construction

GMR’s Vision for Sustainable Infrastructure

The GMR Group is not just laying down roads; it is building ecosystems. All three projects mentioned are rooted in sustainable design and community impact. From environmentally conscious construction practices to job creation during and after project execution, GMR’s role in Transportation sector goes far beyond construction.

GMR became the first in India to adopt the Hot-In-Place recycling method during periodic renewals, and more recently integrated plastic waste into bituminous concrete—a pioneering sustainability initiative. Plastic waste-infused bitumen enhances road durability, reduces water damage, and increases lifespan—all while addressing India’s growing plastic waste problem. It is not just a road; it is a model for environmentally responsible infrastructure.

These roadways also feature advanced safety protocols, digitized toll collection, and real-time traffic updates—all part of a broader push to align with India’s Smart City vision.

Looking forward, GMR is expanding its footprint into smart mobility solutions, including electric vehicle (EV) charging networks and green transport infrastructure. The focus is on shaping a smarter, cleaner mobility landscape for tomorrow.

Smart Tolls

Planning Your Next Road Trip? Here’s What to Expect

  • Shorter travel times: Expect faster, congestion-free commutes even on weekends and holidays.
  • Safer journeys: With better lighting, signage, and safety features, you can drive with more confidence.
  • Access to new destinations: Better connectivity opens up lesser-known spots that are rich in culture, nature, and adventure.
  • Cost-efficiency: Fuel-saving routes, predictable travel, and minimal wear-and-tear on your vehicle.

So, the next time you're planning a road trip, whether it’s a beachside retreat in Tamil Nadu, a food trail through Punjab, or an offbeat adventure in Telangana, know that the road beneath your wheels has likely been built (or improved) by someone who understands the power of infrastructure to transform lives.