In a significant push towards enhancing the country’s road infrastructure, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has been allocating substantial funds for the development and maintenance of state roads under the Central Road & Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) Scheme. This initiative is grounded in the provisions of the amended CRIF Act, 2000, and is aimed at boosting connectivity and fostering economic growth across various states and union territories (UTs).
Detailed Allocation and Expenditure
Over the past three years, the Ministry has meticulously documented the accrual and release of funds, alongside the expenditure incurred for the development and maintenance of state roads. These details are systematically categorized state and UT-wise, underscoring the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in infrastructure development. The specifics of these allocations and expenditures are available in Annexure-I.
Sanctioned Road Projects: A Glimpse of Progress
The past three years have seen a plethora of state and UT road projects being sanctioned and finalized under the CRIF Scheme. This strategic approach ensures that every region benefits from the fund, promoting balanced regional development. Annexure-II provides a comprehensive list of these projects, showcasing the breadth of the government’s infrastructure initiatives.
Massive Undertakings and Future Plans
Currently, there are 1,209 state road projects spanning approximately 14,369 kilometers under implementation. These projects, amounting to an impressive Rs. 37,098 crore, are set to be completed in a phased manner by 2027. This monumental undertaking reflects the government’s long-term vision for a robust and interconnected road network.
National Highways: Expanding Horizons
While the CRIF Scheme focuses on state roads, the Ministry’s primary responsibility remains the development and maintenance of National Highways (NHs). The NH network has seen a remarkable expansion from about 91,287 kilometers in March 2014 to approximately 1,46,126 kilometers today. This growth is detailed state and UT-wise in Annexure-III, illustrating the exponential increase in the NH network.
Restoration Efforts and Special Projects
Among the many projects under the CRIF Scheme, the restoration of rain damages on the Jia Manikaran road (Km 1/610 to 35/110) stands out. Approved at a cost of Rs. 38.86 crore for the fiscal year 2023-24, this project is currently 70% complete and is expected to be finished by December 2024. Such targeted efforts demonstrate the Ministry’s agility in responding to specific infrastructure needs.
Official Statement and Future Outlook
This extensive information was shared by the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today. The details not only highlight the Ministry’s ongoing projects but also reinforce its commitment to developing a world-class road infrastructure network across India.
As the country gears up for these transformative projects, the focus remains on timely completion, quality enhancement, and ensuring that every region reaps the benefits of improved road connectivity. The CRIF Scheme, with its structured approach and substantial financial backing, is poised to drive India towards a future where road travel is seamless, safe, and efficient.
