Highways are emerging as a pivotal catalyst for India’s economic ascent, with every rupee invested in road development reportedly generating a threefold return to the Gross Domestic Product. This significant multiplier effect is not merely an economic metric but a foundational element in fostering large-scale employment and unlocking diverse revenue streams, laying the groundwork for more sustainable and equitable urbanisation across the nation.
The narrative of India’s highway evolution extends far beyond mere concrete and asphalt. The national highways network has seen a remarkable expansion, burgeoning from 91,000 km in 2014 to exceeding 1.46 lakh km today, solidifying India’s position as the world’s second-largest road network. This impressive growth underscores a strategic shift towards modern infrastructure, envisioned not just as transportation arteries but as vital lifelines connecting communities, industries, and burgeoning opportunities. The enhanced connectivity promises faster, safer, and more comfortable travel experiences, directly contributing to improved quality of life for citizens.
Government spending on road infrastructure has witnessed an exponential increase, multiplying 6.4 times between the fiscal years 2013-14 and 2024-25. This robust financial commitment is further evidenced by a 57 per cent surge in the budget allocation for road transport and highways from 2014 to 2023-24, reflecting a resolute dedication to bolstering connectivity, mobility, and comprehensive economic growth. These infrastructure projects have been instrumental in significant job creation, with estimates pointing to 45 crore man-days of direct employment, 57 crore man-days of indirect employment, and an impressive 532 crore man-days of induced employment, highlighting the far-reaching socio-economic benefits.
The emphasis on regional development is particularly noteworthy, with over 10,000 km of national highways constructed in the North Eastern Region over the last decade. This strategic investment in a historically underserved area demonstrates a clear policy directive towards equitable growth and integration, opening up new avenues for economic activity and improved access for the local populace. Concurrently, initiatives like the Delhi Decongestion Plan are actively working to mitigate traffic congestion and air pollution in the capital, while enhancing urban connectivity through projects such as expressway extensions and new road tunnels.
Looking ahead, the Ministry is spearheading the development of more than 700 Wayside Amenities (WSAs) by 2028-29. These facilities are designed to provide essential services like clean restrooms, quality food, dedicated rest areas, fuel stations, and crucial EV charging points, thereby promoting greener mobility and enhancing the overall travel experience. Furthermore, a proactive approach to road safety has seen the rectification of 14,000 accident-prone blackspots, a critical step towards reducing fatalities and injuries on highways. Complementing these efforts are environmental initiatives such as the Green Highways Policy and ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, which have resulted in the planting of over 4.78 crore trees and the transplantation of approximately 70,000 trees along highways, demonstrating a commitment to a zero net carbon future. These multifaceted endeavours transcend traditional road construction, instead laying a robust foundation for a prosperous, peaceful, and resilient India.
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