The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has formulated a plan to undertake white-topping on nearly half of the roads in the city's Ambad and Satpur MIDC areas by the next financial year, 2027-28. This initiative aims to enhance road durability and improve traffic flow in these heavily industrialized zones.
Decision Driven by Traffic Load
Civic officials stated that the decision is driven by the increasing traffic load on these roads, which regularly serve hundreds of industrial units and heavy vehicles. The two MIDC estates together have approximately 68 kilometers of internal and arterial roads within NMC limits.
Ongoing Work on Key Stretch
The NMC has already commenced white-topping work on a crucial eight-kilometer stretch connecting Garware point to Papaya Nursery via XLO point. This stretch links both Ambad and Satpur MIDC areas, and the project is expected to be completed by March 2027.
NMC commissioner Manisha Khatri said the civic body aims to gradually convert MIDC roads into cement concrete (CC) roads for better longevity. We are planning white-topping of all major and minor roads in these industrial estates, she said, adding that the ongoing eight-kilometer stretch is a key connectivity corridor.
Financial Provisions and Funding
Khatri added that the civic body has been making financial provisions for improving MIDC roads over the past few years. During the 2025-26 financial year, the NMC allocated Rs 20 crore for MIDC roads and received an additional Rs 20 crore under the District Planning and Development Committee (DPDC). For the current financial year, a provision of Rs 10 crore has been made.
The civic body is also utilizing around Rs 50 crore under the Centre's Urban Challenge Fund to strengthen road infrastructure in the industrial areas. Khatri noted that an additional provision of around Rs 20 crore is likely to be made every year from the next financial year to accelerate the white-topping works.
Phased Approach and Expected Benefits
Officials said the plan to cover 50% of the roads in Ambad and Satpur MIDC by FY28 is part of a phased approach, with priority given to key stretches that witness high traffic density and recurring maintenance issues.
The move is expected to reduce frequent repair costs and ensure smoother connectivity in Nashik's major industrial zones, which play a crucial role in the city's economy.
