Massive National Project Aims to Transform Connectivity and Reduce Logistics Costs
The Bharatmala Pariyojana, a transformative infrastructure initiative by the Government of India, is set to revolutionize the country’s transportation network. With an aim to enhance connectivity and significantly reduce logistics costs, this ambitious project encompasses a variety of infrastructural developments, including Economic Corridors, Inter-corridor Routes, Feeder Routes, National Corridors Efficiency Improvement, Border and International Connectivity, Coastal and Port Connectivity Roads, and Expressways.
Key Features and Objectives
The Bharatmala Pariyojana was approved with the goal of creating a seamless and efficient road network across India. The project’s scope includes the construction and enhancement of multiple types of roadways and supporting infrastructure:
- Economic Corridors: Aimed at boosting economic activities by improving road connectivity between major industrial hubs.
- Inter-corridor and Feeder Routes: Designed to streamline traffic flow and connect remote areas to the main economic corridors.
- National Corridors Efficiency Improvement: Focused on upgrading existing national highways to improve their capacity and efficiency.
- Border and International Connectivity Roads: Enhancing road connectivity to neighboring countries to facilitate international trade.
- Coastal and Port Connectivity Roads: Improving access to major ports to boost maritime trade.
- Expressways: Developing high-speed road networks for faster and more efficient travel.
Progress and Monitoring
The implementation of Bharatmala Pariyojana is monitored rigorously. Regular review meetings are held by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and state governments to address any issues that may arise during the execution of the projects. This diligent oversight ensures that the projects stay on track and meet their targeted completion dates.
In a recent statement to the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, provided an update on the progress of the Bharatmala Pariyojana. He emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s road infrastructure and highlighted the project’s role in reducing logistics costs and boosting economic growth.
Expanding the Network
The Bharatmala Pariyojna, which translates to ‘India Garland Project’, aims to connect 550 district headquarters through a minimum of 4-lane highways, up from the current 300. The project plans to increase the number of corridors from 6 to 50, thereby facilitating the movement of 80% of freight traffic on national highways, a significant jump from the current 40%.
The extensive network will include:
- 24 logistics parks
- 66 inter-corridors totaling 8,000 kilometers
- 116 feeder routes covering 7,500 kilometers
- 7 north-eastern multi-modal waterway ports
The development also encompasses the construction of tunnels, bridges, elevated corridors, flyovers, overpasses, interchanges, bypasses, and ring roads. These infrastructural enhancements are designed to provide optimized connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and ensure efficient transportation across the country.
Historical Context and Investment
The Bharatmala Pariyojana subsumes all existing highway projects, including the National Highways Development Project (NHDP) launched by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government in 1998. The focus is primarily on connecting remote areas and satellite cities of major metropolises such as Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad.
The project represents the largest financial commitment to road construction in Indian history, with an estimated investment of ₹10.63 lakh crore (approximately US$130 billion) for the development of 83,677 kilometers of new highways. This unprecedented outlay underscores the government’s dedication to creating a robust and efficient road network that will support India’s economic growth for decades to come.
The Bharatmala Pariyojana stands as a testament to India’s vision of a connected and prosperous future. By significantly improving road infrastructure, the project aims to reduce logistics costs, enhance connectivity, and foster economic growth across the nation. As progress continues, the Bharatmala Pariyojana promises to transform India’s transportation landscape, paving the way for a more efficient and dynamic economy.
