World-class highways connecting India.

Envisioning a nation marching towards sustainable economic growth and development is what the current government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strived to achieve since its inception.

Through a network of tactfully planned and strategically designed initiatives, today we see highways and expressways running across the length and breadth of the nation. Because of its strategically aligned policy reforms, the government has been successful in bringing an unprecedented wave of overall socio-economic development. Bridging critical infrastructure gaps and enhancing connectivity has always been at the helm of PM Modi’s endeavors.

Creating Momentum for a New Bharat

Under PM Modi’s government, the pace at which initiatives are running has increased multifold, resulting in outstanding, never-before-seen outcomes coming to fruition.


India, with about 67 lakh km, boasts of having the second-largest road network in the world. Compared to what was achieved during earlier governments, under PM Modi, the highway network has seen an increase of 60% in the last 10 years. With close to 1.5 lakh km of built highway network, a major push toward highway construction has been witnessed in the last decade.

When it comes to achieving a faster pace and greater efficiency in construction, the current government has been achieving remarkable feats.

Today, the average pace of highway construction has increased by nearly 143% compared to what it was a decade ago.

Since 2014, the nation has achieved a remarkable milestone under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), constructing nearly 4 lakh km of rural roads. This expansive network now ensures that over 99% of rural habitations are connected. By enhancing connectivity, PMGSY has become a symbol of empowerment for rural communities, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

‘Swamitva,’ an initiative aimed at creating a digital and transparent land documentation process, was launched by the government in 2020. The initiative deploys and leverages AI to enable land mapping in rural inhabited areas of the nation. Through AI-enabled drone surveys, the government plans to keep track of accurate land records. This step is significant as it enables the government to streamline infrastructural projects across the nation.

The transformative impact of these initiatives under PM Modi’s government showcases a bold vision for a more connected, inclusive, and progressive India, setting a strong foundation for the nation’s future development.

Building Infrastructural Marvels

Under PM Modi’s leadership, India’s infrastructure has undergone a remarkable transformation, driving economic growth and enhancing travel experiences. The Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest highway tunnel, ensures year-round connectivity to Lahaul-Spiti, while the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, highlights technological advancements. The Zojila Tunnel, set to provide all-weather access to Ladakh, reflects a commitment to connecting even the most challenging terrains.

Projects like the Atal Setu in Mumbai, the Bogibeel Bridge over the Brahmaputra, and the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge in the Northeast have boosted business, eased daily life, and fostered development in underserved regions.

By prioritizing innovation and connectivity, the government is not only building infrastructure but also laying the foundation for a future where every region, from bustling cities to remote areas, is empowered to thrive.

Towards Economic Integration

Integrated planning and coordinated implementation of infrastructure projects, along with reducing time and cost overruns, have been top priorities for the government since its inception.

To achieve efficiency in infrastructural works, the government has launched the PM Gati Shakti initiative to coordinate efforts across 44 central ministries, ensuring efficient project implementation and seamless connectivity.

Bharatmala and Sagarmala are other initiatives launched by the current government, which have turned out to be significant milestones. Aimed at modernizing and enhancing the nation’s infrastructure, Bharatmala focuses on increasing road connectivity across the nation, while Sagarmala is dedicated to modernizing ports along the coastline.

Both of these initiatives intend to enhance and modernize infrastructure for more efficient and effective transportation of goods, utilizing improved logistics and infrastructure. Efficient movement of freight and passengers, reduction in delays, and a boost in economic activities are just a few of the many positive outcomes expected from such policy reforms.

These diligent steps taken by the government have managed to bring significant achievements in improving access to markets, along with social and economic integration.

Strengthening the Vision of Building a Viksit Bharat

In the last decade, the PM Modi-led government has played a transformative role in reshaping India’s infrastructure, ensuring that the most remote regions are brought into the mainstream.

Through these integrated efforts, India is advancing as a key player in global trade and logistics. By improving last-mile connectivity, the government has enabled marginalized communities to access crucial social security benefits, significantly enhancing their socio-economic conditions.

The government’s focus on enhancing infrastructure has played a pivotal role in reshaping the nation’s economic trajectory. Improved logistics and infrastructure, along with huge FDI inflows, have facilitated the establishment of new industries across various sectors. These investments have not only bolstered India’s industrial base but also generated employment opportunities and technological advancements.

Together, these achievements mark a new era of infrastructural excellence, laying the foundation for an inclusive and interconnected India. This approach has laid the foundation for a modern, interconnected infrastructure network that supports the vision of a Viksit Bharat. With a focus on accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability, India is moving rapidly toward becoming a robust and prosperous nation with equitable development for all.


References:

  1. Year End Review 2023-Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
  2. Building India – 10 years of infrastructure development

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