GoI, ADB Formalise Rs 175 Mn Loan For Enhanced Road Network In Madhya Pradesh
In a significant move towards enhancing infrastructure and connectivity, the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have formalised a USD 175 million loan agreement for the "Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience of the Madhya Pradesh Road Network Project." The loan agreement was signed by Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance, representing the Government of India, and Takeo Konishi, Country Director of ADB’s India Resident Mission, on behalf of ADB.
Mukherjee emphasised that the project aims to improve connectivity across 14 districts, fostering balanced economic development in Madhya Pradesh. ADB, having supported road development in the state since 2002, will continue its efforts by upgrading approximately 500 kilometres of state highways and major district roads.
The upgraded roads will feature a standard two-lane design with a focus on climate and disaster resilience, incorporating innovative road safety elements. Konishi highlighted the project's goal to connect rural areas with growth centres and industrial corridors, establishing roads that are safer and climate-resilient.
The initiative will also enhance the capacity of the Madhya Pradesh Road Development Corporation Limited (MPRDC) in climate change adaptation, disaster resilience, and road safety. Additionally, strategies for green technology adoption in road construction and the creation of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles are integral components of the project.
To promote gender equality and social inclusion, the project will formulate a strategy and establish an internship program to attract female talent to the road sector.
Furthermore, women self-help groups will be engaged to raise awareness about road safety, and livelihood and entrepreneurship training programs for women and girls will be conducted, alongside the construction of at least two roadside markets.
The holistic approach of the project reflects its commitment to not only improving infrastructure but also fostering inclusivity and sustainability in the Madhya Pradesh road network.
