In a significant move to bolster infrastructure, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has issued a stern directive to contractors, demanding uncompromising quality in road construction across Gujarat. The minister's warning came during a high-level review meeting held in Gandhinagar to assess the condition of national highways in the state.
Strict Warning and Zero Tolerance Policy
During the meeting on Wednesday, Gadkari made it clear that any negligence in the construction and resurfacing of national highways would not be tolerated. He instructed contractors to prioritize public convenience and safety above all else in their projects. Officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) were also present to take note of the firm directives.
The Union minister explicitly commanded all senior officials and contractors to ensure that all road construction works are completed within the stipulated timelines. He emphasized that the matter of smooth road connectivity must be addressed with the utmost seriousness.
Massive Financial Allocation for Infrastructure
In a major announcement that promises to transform Gujarat's road network, an official statement on Thursday confirmed that the Centre will allocate a substantial sum of ₹20,000 crore for the construction and resurfacing of national highways and other related projects in the state.
This financial commitment was reinforced by Gadkari in response to a representation made by the Chief Minister during the meeting. The CM highlighted that national highways in Gujarat bear the burden of over 35% of the total traffic load and stressed the urgent need for proper repairs and, if necessary, expansion works.
On-Ground Inspection and Key Projects
As part of his visit, Minister Gadkari conducted a physical inspection of ongoing highway projects. On Wednesday, he visited the under-construction section of National Highway-48 in Himmatnagar town of Sabarkantha district.
There, he personally reviewed the progress of work at the Motipura flyover and an underpass on the highway. The Chief Minister specifically urged for the speedy completion of ongoing works on three critical routes: the Ahmedabad-Mumbai, Rajkot-Gondal-Jetpur, and Ahmedabad-Udaipur highways. Following the Gandhinagar meeting, Gadkari proceeded to south Gujarat on Thursday to continue his inspection of ongoing works in that region.
