Chittoor–Thatchur Expressway Partially Opens, To Slash Chennai–Chittoor Travel By Half

The Chittoor-Thatchur Expressway (NH-716B) is no longer just a blueprint-it's a reality unfolding across the landscape of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Parts of the first Tamil Nadu Expressway has opened.

A YouTuber has shared the visuals of his drive on the highway. The clips (aerial shots) show the beautifully constructed roads.

This 116.1 km, six-lane access-controlled greenfield expressway, designated NH-716B, is being developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). It connects Keenatampalli near Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh to Thatchoor near Ponneri and Ennore in Tamil Nadu's Thiruvallur district, with a total corridor length of about 126.55 km including overlaps.

This Greenfield marvel has transitioned from a construction zone to a high-speed corridor, drastically altering how freight and travelers move between the two states.

Here is the story of the road that is reshaping the future of South Indian transit.

The "Port-Link" Revolution
For decades, container trucks bound for Ennore (Kamarajar) and Kattupalli ports had to navigate the suffocating congestion of the Chennai Bypass. The Chittoor-Thatchur Expressway changes that narrative entirely.

By connecting the Bangalore-Chennai Expressway (BCE) near Chittoor directly to the Chennai Peripheral Ring Road (CPRR) at Thatchur, it creates a seamless, 116.1 km "express-lane" for trade

The Speed & Time Warp
Old Travel Time: 4 to 6 hours (subject to heavy traffic).

New Travel Time: 90-120 minutes.

The "Lock": This is a 6-lane, access-controlled highway. Speed is strictly monitored with a limit of 100 kmph.

Navigating the Corridor: From Chennai to the Highway
If you are starting from Chennai and want to "Watch the future unfold," here is how you reach the entry points:

Key Interchanges (Where to Get On/Off)

Thatchur (Terminus): The grand gateway near Ponneri, linking to the Ennore Port.

Kannigaipair: A strategic hub for those coming from Red Hills or Sri City.

Vadamadurai / Periyapalayam: Ideal for local travelers and those visiting the famous temple.

Pondavakkam: The final exit in Tamil Nadu before the road enters Andhra Pradesh toward Nagari.