Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari laid the foundation stones of 15 National Highway projects costing Rs 8,038 crore with a total length of 499 km in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh on January 30, 2024. The projects are expected to improve connectivity, reduce traffic congestion and promote industrial and agricultural growth in the state.
Ayodhya Bypass Section
One of the projects is the widening of the Ayodhya bypass section from two lanes to four lanes. The project will cost Rs 1,200 crore and cover a length of 47 km. The project will provide relief to the passengers travelling from Kanpur to Bhopal, who often face traffic jams at the existing bypass. The project will also reduce the travel time and fuel consumption for the commuters.
Budhni to Shahganj Section
Another project is the four-lane widening of the Budhni to Shahganj section, which will cost Rs 2,500 crore and cover a length of 69 km. The project will increase the connectivity between Sehore and Raisen districts, which are important for agriculture and tourism. The project will also connect three highways in Madhya Pradesh: NH-12, NH-46 and NH-146.
Shahganj to Bari Section
The third project is the four-lane widening of the Shahganj to Bari section, which will cost Rs 1,800 crore and cover a length of 66 km. The project will improve the connectivity between Bhopal and Sagar districts, which are known for their historical and cultural heritage. The project will also facilitate the movement of goods and passengers between Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
Morena, Ambah and Porsa Bypasses
The fourth project is the construction of two-lane bypasses for Morena, Ambah and Porsa towns, which will cost Rs 900 crore and cover a length of 83 km. The project will ease the traffic congestion in these towns, which are located on the NH-3 connecting Agra and Mumbai. The project will also enhance the safety and comfort of the travellers.
Sheopur Gorsa Section
The fifth project is the construction of a two-lane road from Sheopur Gorsa to Madhya Pradesh-Rajasthan border, which will cost Rs 638 crore and cover a length of 64 km. The project will improve the connectivity between Sheopur district in Madhya Pradesh and Baran district in Rajasthan, which are rich in natural resources and wildlife. The project will also boost the tourism potential of these areas.
Other Projects
The other projects include construction of bridges, flyovers, underpasses, service roads and other facilities along various national highways in Madhya Pradesh. These projects will cost Rs 400 crore and cover a length of 170 km. These projects will improve the road infrastructure and safety standards in the state.
Impact of the Projects
The projects are part of the Pragati Ka Highway initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the Gati Shakti scheme. The projects aim to create a network of world-class highways across India that will enable faster and smoother movement of people and goods. The projects will also generate employment opportunities, stimulate economic activity and foster social development in Madhya Pradesh.