As of October 31, 2024 a total of 26,425 KM of highway projects have been awarded, with 18,714 kilometer already constructed under the Bharatmala Pariyojana scheme, said Union Minister Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari in a written reply in Rajya Sabha.

Aims to improve connectivity and reduce logistics costs by enhancing the national highways, the Bharatmala Pariyojana approved by the Government of India in 2017. The target for the scheme is to construct 34,800 km of roads across India. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has invested Rs 4.72 lakh crore in Bharatmala projects till October 30, 2024 to expand the national road infrastructure.

In addition, Gadkari further informed the Rajya Sabha that 190 National Highway projects, spanning 3,856 km and costing Rs 81,540 crore, are currently under construction in the northeastern region. These projects are expected to be completed by September 2028. For the financial year 2024-25, an allocation of Rs 19,338 crore has been made for highway development in the northeast.

In the category of Port and Coastal Connectivity Roads, 18 projects with a total length of 424 km have been awarded, with 189 km already completed. These projects are designed to improve access to major and minor ports along India’s coastline, covering states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal.

To ensure timely completion, the government has streamlined land acquisition processes and improved the dispute resolution mechanism. Projects are now awarded only after securing land and necessary clearances, reducing delays, informed the minister.

Additionally, close coordination with state governments and relevant ministries is helping to expedite the approval process for changes in scope or time extensions. The government is also conducting regular reviews to keep projects on track and address any challenges proactively. These efforts aim to ensure that the Bharatmala Pariyojana contributes to improved infrastructure and reduced logistics costs across India.

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