Even as the Election Commission is set to declare the dates for General elections 2024, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, took to social media to unveil several key infrastructure initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity and fostering economic development in various regions across India.
As per Gadkari’s posts, in Gujarat, the government has sanctioned Rs 699.19 crore under the Hybrid Annuity Mode for upgrading the Khokhra Gujarat Border – Vijayanagar – Antarsuba – Mathasur Road section of National Highway 58 in Palanpur district. This project involves converting the existing single/two-lane road to a 2-lane with paved shoulder (PS), including realignment in 14 stretches traversing hilly terrain. The upgraded highway is expected to improve connectivity between Gujarat and Rajasthan, facilitating access to prominent tourist destinations like Ambaji Temple, Udaipur, and Polo Forest.
Additionally, in Madhya Pradesh, a sum of Rs 188.95 crore has been approved for the development, operation, and maintenance of a ropeway between Ujjain Junction Railway Station and Mahakaleshwar Temple. This initiative aims to ease pilgrimage during peak seasons by reducing travel time to a mere 7 minutes, benefitting an estimated 64,000 pilgrims daily.
In Karnataka, an allocation of Rs 576.22 crore has been sanctioned for the 4-laning of the Yedegowdanahalli to Arjunahalli segment of NH-373 in Hassan district. This project aims to enhance connectivity to renowned tourist destinations such as Chikamagaluru, Belur, Halebeedu, and Shravanabelagola, thereby stimulating tourism and economic activities.
Furthermore, in Assam, an allocation of Rs 421.15 crore has been approved for the construction of a 4-lane Gauripur Bypass along NH-17 (New)/NH-31(Old) in Dhubri district. Covering a length of 9.61 kilometres, this project aims to alleviate congestion in Gauripur town and enhance safety by mitigating risks associated with sharp bends on the current highway.
Gadkari emphasised that these infrastructure projects underscore the government's commitment to bolstering connectivity, promoting tourism, and ensuring safer travel experiences for citizens across different states. As these initiatives take shape, they are expected to catalyse economic growth and contribute significantly to the overall development of the regions they serve.