In a significant boost to urban connectivity and infrastructure, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin officially inaugurated the impressive 10.10-km G.D. Naidu flyover in Coimbatore city on Thursday, October 9, 2025.
This state-of-the-art flyover, which stretches from Goldwins to Uppilipalayam, was completed over five years at a substantial cost of ₹1,791.23 crore. Just days prior to the inauguration, Chief Minister Stalin thoughtfully named this architectural marvel after the legendary G.D. Naidu, affectionately known as the ‘Edison of India’, honoring his immense contributions.
According to an official press release, the journey for this ambitious four-lane flyover began in 2016-2017 with the approval for a detailed project report. Administrative sanction, initially for ₹1,621 crore, was granted in 2020. K.N.R. Constructions secured the contract in the same year, with an initial target of 48 months for completion. Despite a revised sanction of ₹1,791.23 crore last July, the project has been brought to fruition, with only minor works remaining, such as the construction of a single up-ramp and a 1.5-meter-wide footpath and drainage system spanning 4.4 km.
The project thoughtfully incorporates a four-lane main carriageway complemented by an expanded six-lane ground-level road. It also features eight strategically placed up and down ramps across four locations, ensuring smooth traffic flow.
Heralded as potentially the longest flyover in South India, the G.D. Naidu flyover is not just about length but also about innovative features. It includes sinus plate expansion joints for structural integrity, an integrated rainwater harvesting system in every span to enhance groundwater recharge, drip irrigation on the flyover, and sprinkler irrigation at ground level to promote greenery. Furthermore, the entire structure is illuminated with energy-saving lights, underscoring a commitment to sustainability.
A key benefit of this new infrastructure is the dramatic reduction in travel time from Coimbatore city to its airport, now estimated at a swift 10 minutes.
The grand inauguration ceremony saw the presence of other esteemed dignitaries, including E.V. Velu, Minister of Public Works, Highways and Minor Ports, G.D. Gopal, son of G.D. Naidu and Managing Trustee of G.D. Naidu Charities Trust, and G.D. Rajkumar, grandson of G.D. Naidu and a Trustee. Following the official proceedings, the Chief Minister himself took a ride on the newly opened flyover, marking its readiness for public use.