Accelerating Connectivity: Northeast India’s National Highway Projects to See Completion by 2027

Delhi, Nov 27, 2024 – The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is spearheading efforts to transform connectivity in the northeastern states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Tripura through an ambitious series of National Highway (NH) projects. With a focus on both construction and maintenance, these projects aim to address the region’s unique logistical and environmental challenges.

Progress and Plans: State-Wise Overview

A comprehensive report tabled by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in the Rajya Sabha highlighted the current status of NH projects in the four states. The initiatives include:

• Projects under construction
• Completed projects for the fiscal year 2024-25
• Approved projects pending commencement

While funds are allocated on a state-wise basis rather than for individual projects, a significant financial push has been dedicated to both the development and upkeep of these critical infrastructure assets.

Target Completion by 2027

Despite hurdles such as land acquisition issues, forest and environmental clearances, utility shifting, and contractor-related challenges, all ongoing NH projects in these states are slated for completion by 2027. This timeline is seen as a major step toward bolstering economic growth and enhancing mobility in the often-remote northeastern region.

Proactive Measures to Prevent Delays

To ensure timely execution, the Ministry has implemented several measures:

1. Streamlining Land Acquisition – Ensuring quicker resolution of disputes and clearance processes.
2. Enhanced Project Preparation – Approvals are granted only after comprehensive groundwork, including land acquisition and utility estimates.
3. Close Coordination – Regular engagement with other ministries and state governments to address interdepartmental issues.
4. Robust Monitoring – Regular reviews at various levels to assess progress and mitigate delays.
5. Change Management – Expediting approvals for any scope modifications or time extensions.
6. Resilience Planning – Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) include provisions for protective works, especially in challenging terrains.

The introduction of the Network Planning Group ensures that all relevant departments are consulted during the project appraisal phase, enabling pre-emptive solutions for potential bottlenecks.

Transforming the Northeast

Once completed, these projects are expected to not only improve regional connectivity but also unlock significant economic potential in the northeastern states. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to bridging infrastructural gaps and bringing the northeast closer to the national mainstream.

The Union Minister’s announcement signals a determined push to overcome geographic and administrative challenges, making the region’s long-standing vision of robust connectivity a reality.