In a significant move to enhance road infrastructure, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced the government’s plan to upgrade 25,000 km of two-lane highways to four lanes at an estimated cost of ₹10 trillion. Additionally, 16,000 km of National Highways will be expanded to six lanes with a budget of ₹6 trillion.
Reducing Road Accidents and Enhancing Connectivity
Gadkari emphasized that this massive infrastructure project aims to reduce the alarming rate of road accidents in India. With around 480,000 road accidents and 188,000 fatalities reported annually, the government’s goal is to cut accident rates by 50% by 2030. The economic impact of road accidents is severe, costing the country 3% of its GDP every year.
Major Projects Underway
The government is already undertaking large-scale projects to improve connectivity, especially in Jammu & Kashmir. With ongoing investments worth ₹2 trillion, the region is seeing the construction of 105 tunnels, including the Zojila tunnel. Touted as Asia’s longest tunnel in a sub-zero temperature zone, it will be completed at a reduced cost of ₹5,500 crore compared to the initial estimate of ₹12,000 crore.
Furthermore, the Jammu-Srinagar Highway is undergoing significant development with 36 tunnels planned, of which 22 have been completed. This will reduce travel time between Jammu and Srinagar from seven hours to three to three-and-a-half hours. Similarly, the Delhi-Katra Expressway will cut travel time from 12 hours to approximately six hours upon completion.
Ambitious Vision for Indian Roads
On a bold note, Gadkari declared that India’s highway network will surpass that of the United States within the next two years. He expressed confidence in the significant advancements in the road sector, emphasizing the improvements in quality and infrastructure that will make Indian highways stand out globally.
Conclusion
With ₹16 trillion allocated for these transformative projects, the government’s commitment to building a robust road infrastructure is evident. Enhanced connectivity, safer roads, and reduced travel times will significantly contribute to the country’s economic growth and regional development. As the projects unfold, India is set to witness a new era in transportation infrastructure.
