The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has given the green light for a $175 million loan to improve road connectivity and climate resilience in Madhya Pradesh, India. ADB has been a significant contributor to the state’s road network development since 2002, enhancing over 9,000 kilometers of state highways and major district roads, according to ADB Transport Specialist Yang Lu.
The current project’s objective is to enhance connectivity between rural areas and growth hubs, strengthen industrial corridors, and create safer, climate-resilient roads to foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Madhya Pradesh. Key project features include upgrading around 500 kilometers of state highways and major district roads to a two-lane design with climate and disaster resilience, innovative road safety elements, and facilities catering to various demographics.
ADB will also support the Madhya Pradesh Road Development Corporation (MPRDC) in climate adaptation, disaster resilience, road safety, green technology adoption, and gender equality. The project aims to empower female students to join the road sector, collaborate with women’s self-help groups for road safety awareness, offer livelihood and entrepreneurship training, and establish roadside markets.
