National Highway 16 (NH16), originally known as NH5, is a significant highway in the Indian subcontinent. With a length of approximately 3,845 kilometres, it is one of the longest highways in India. This crucial stretch of road runs along the eastern coast of the country, connecting several major cities and towns. Its establishment has had a profound impact on transportation, trade and development in the regions it spans.
See also: NH 44
Key facts
- Before the large-scale renumbering of all national highways by the Indian government in 2010, NH16 was originally known as NH5.
- NH16 is approximately 3,845 kilometres long.
- The highway was formerly known as NH5.
- It forms an integral part of the Golden Quadrilateral project.
- The highway spans across four states: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal.
- NH16 connects several major cities, including Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Kolkata.
Route mapÂ
NH16 embarks on its lengthy journey from Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu. It then traverses through the states of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal, connecting several significant cities and towns along the way. The highway’s endpoint is in Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal and one of the major cultural, commercial and educational centres of India.
Cities and towns covered
 State |   Cities/towns |
 Tamil Nadu |  Chennai |
 Andhra Pradesh |  Guntur,Â
   Vijayawada    Rajahmundry    Visakhapatnam |
 Odisha |  Bhubaneswar
   Cuttack    Puri |
 West Bengal |  Kharagpur
   Kolkata |
Real estate impact
The establishment and expansion of NH16 have led to significant growth in real estate developments along its route. With improved connectivity and accessibility, both residential and commercial projects have seen an unprecedented surge. The areas surrounding the highway have become ideal for real estate investment, with heightened property values due to their strategic location.
For instance, cities like Visakhapatnam and Bhubaneswar, which are on the NH16 route, have seen a rise in housing projects and commercial spaces. The easy connectivity to other major cities boosts their appeal to potential investors and residents. Similarly, developing towns along the route have also seen a growth in real estate due to the accessibility provided by NH16.
The highway’s presence has also led to the development of new suburbs and satellite towns, as people search for homes outside the main cities but within an accessible distance. This has further boosted the real estate industry, creating new opportunities for developers and investors alike.
National Highway 16, with its extensive reach and excellent connectivity, plays a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of the eastern region of India. By facilitating transportation, boosting trade and promoting real estate growth, it significantly contributes to the overall progress of the nation.
FAQs
NH16 spans a total distance of approximately 3,845 kilometres, making it one of the longest highways in India.
NH16 connects several significant cities including Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Kolkata. It also covers numerous important towns along its route.
Before the renumbering of all national highways in 2010, NH16 was known as NH5.
The establishment of NH16 has spurred real estate development in the regions it spans. Improved accessibility and connectivity have led to a surge in residential and commercial projects, with increased property values and investment opportunities.
The Golden Quadrilateral project is an initiative by the Indian government to connect the country's four major cities - Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata - through a network of highways. NH16 forms an integral part of this project.
NH16 traverses through four states: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal.
The speed limit on NH16 varies depending on the specific stretch and type of vehicle. Generally, the maximum speed limit ranges from 50 km/h in densely populated areas to 80 km/h on open stretches. What is the total length of NH16?
Which major cities does NH16 connect to?
What was NH16 previously known as?
What impact has NH16 had on real estate development?
What is the Golden Quadrilateral project?
Which states does NH16 traverse through?
What is the speed limit on NH16?
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