Union Minister Nitin Gadkari revealed on Monday that the government is embarking on a massive infrastructure endeavour by constructing several greenfield expressway projects across the country. These projects, spanning a total of 10,000 km, will be developed at a cost of Rs 4.5 lakh crore. Gadkari, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways, shared that these expressways are part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana initiative.
Highlighting the financial aspect, Gadkari mentioned that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has already generated over Rs 70,000 crore through various financing models. This significant amount will be utilised to fund the highway projects.
Addressing an event on Infrastructure Financing organised by IIM Kozhikode, Gadkari emphasised the government’s commitment to the nation’s development. He stated, “The government has conceptualised Bharatmala Pariyojna of 65,000 km of highway development across the country. The phase 1 road network is 34,800 km.”
Gadkari also highlighted the government’s focus on asset monetisation to drive infrastructure investment. NHAI holds a share of 27 percent under the national monetisation pipeline and is actively exploring models such as ToT (toll-operate-transfer), InVIT (Infrastructure Investment Trust), and project-based financing.
These ambitious infrastructure programs, coupled with the national infrastructure pipeline and PM Gati Shakti National master plan, aim to foster integrated and holistic development in the country. Additionally, they will enhance connectivity to remote areas, saving both time and costs.
