The Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways has announced an ambitious target: to construct 100 kilometres of highways per day, a goal that could set India on a transformative path in terms of its national road network.
The target is a cornerstone of the country’s long-term infrastructure vision, with plans to overhaul transportation systems that will not only boost economic growth but also foster sustainability. At a recent leadership conclave, the Minister revealed that India had already made impressive strides in highway development, reaching a pace of 37 kilometres per day during 2020-21. The latest goal of 100 km/day comes at a time when the government is focused on scaling up infrastructure projects to meet growing demands for efficient and sustainable transportation networks across the country. This feat, if achieved, would place India ahead of the United States in terms of the scale of its road infrastructure within the next 18 months.
The Minister also highlighted the ongoing investment surge in infrastructure, with the government earmarking INR 1 lakh crore for revamping the National Capital Region (NCR). These investments are set to enhance connectivity across metropolitan hubs, easing traffic congestion and improving road safety. The major thrust of these plans is to create better public transportation systems, which will help reduce the over-reliance on private vehicles and ease urban mobility challenges. The government’s highway expansion drive focuses on constructing 25,000 kilometres of both two-lane and four-lane highways over the coming years. This move is expected to accelerate regional and inter-state connectivity, reducing travel times significantly and contributing to the country’s economic development by enabling smoother logistics for industries. The focus on road infrastructure is part of a broader vision to improve the overall transportation ecosystem, making it more accessible, efficient, and eco-friendly.
But beyond just building roads, the overarching vision for India’s transportation system is intertwined with a commitment to sustainability. While the government’s road expansion agenda is a massive undertaking, experts argue that it must also be balanced with sustainable practices to prevent a rise in carbon emissions, traffic congestion, and urban sprawl. The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), improved fuel efficiency, and promoting eco-friendly modes of transport are seen as crucial components in the development of the country’s transportation infrastructure. Public transportation systems, which are set to be modernised in urban areas, will play a key role in curbing emissions and promoting inclusive access to mobility. As part of the broader “India@2047” vision, officials stress that the development of satellite towns and rural infrastructure is just as crucial as upgrading urban transport systems. These smaller towns and rural areas are essential in creating a balanced and equitable urban-rural integration, reducing population pressures in metropolitan centres while encouraging local economic development. Improved road access to rural regions will help create new economic zones and facilitate faster movement of goods and services.
The government’s multi-pronged approach also includes the development of smarter cities and better connectivity between tier-2 and tier-3 cities, all of which will depend on the road network’s expansion. This will not only create employment but also enhance India’s competitiveness on a global scale. Infrastructure is now seen as one of the pillars of India’s growth, with the potential to generate significant employment opportunities and increase the standard of living for millions of citizens. However, some experts caution that while the focus on building roads and highways is important, the need for environmental considerations must remain paramount. With the increased pace of construction, India must ensure that its road infrastructure projects are designed with minimal environmental impact. The government is expected to adhere to stringent environmental clearance processes, ensuring that the development does not come at the cost of natural resources or ecosystems.
In the coming years, it is expected that the construction of highways will become an increasingly visible and vital part of India’s developmental trajectory. The government’s focus on highways and public transport represents a critical shift in policy aimed at improving mobility, fostering economic growth, and ensuring that India’s infrastructure meets the demands of a growing population. While the focus on highway expansion presents a promising future, it is essential for India to maintain its commitment to creating a sustainable, environmentally-conscious, and equitable transportation system. The path ahead is not just about constructing roads but about building smarter, more sustainable cities and transport networks that work for every Indian.
India Aims for 100 km of Highways Every Day
