The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has selected 16 pilot highway projects for the adoption of Automated and Intelligent Machine-aided Construction (AIMC), including the Rs 700 crore four-laning of the 22 km Bendordem–Canacona stretch in South Goa. AIMC—successfully trialled on the Lucknow–Kanpur expressway—employs GPS-aided motor graders, intelligent compactors and stringless pavers to deliver faster, more precise work with minimal human intervention. A dedicated digital information platform will log all project data in real time, while MoRTH will facilitate contractors in obtaining the necessary radio-frequency licences from the Department of Telecommunications. Officials emphasise that AIMC will complement, not replace, conventional quality checks—reducing material waste, enhancing site safety and improving adherence to design specifications.
This upgrade of National Highway 66 forms a critical link in the Mumbai–Kanyakumari four-lane corridor, traversing Bendordem, Cordem, Barcem and Canacona and strengthening connectivity to Margao, Cuncolim and Panaji. The project follows a hybrid annuity financing model, with 40% of costs funded upfront by the government and the remaining 60% paid as annuities over the concession period, plus separate operations and maintenance fees. Work is slated to begin later this year, targeting completion by mid-2028, and is expected to significantly cut travel times, boost freight efficiency and stimulate economic growth across South Goa.
