Dhanbad, April 21 -- In a major relief for lakhs of commuters travelling between Dhanbad, Sindri and Baliapur, the long-neglected Dhanbad-Baliapur Hirak road is set to be upgraded into a four-lane corridor. The project, estimated at around Rs.200 crore, has received technical approval for its Detailed Project Report (DPR) and design from the road construction department (RCD) headquarters, and is now awaiting administrative clearance before the tender process begins. The 17-km stretch-particularly the Bhuiphore More to Baliapur Binod Bihari Chowk section-has been in an extremely dilapidated condition, with potholes and poor maintenance leading to frequent traffic snarls and accidents. The situation worsens after sunset when low visibility makes the potholes nearly invisible, increasing the risk for commuters. At present, the 7-7.5 metre-wide road will be expanded to 18 metres, comprising two 9-metre carriageways separated by a 1.5-metre divider. The project also includes construction of a new rail overbridge (ROB) parallel to the existing one at Karmatand, an underpass near Amjhar, and culverts over drainage channels. A proper drainage system and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, including paver blocks, will also be developed to prevent waterlogging and improve safety....