India has achieved a significant milestone in its infrastructure development with the construction of 5,100 km of Greenfield High-Speed Corridors (HSCs) and expressways out of a total 8,391 km planned, according to officials from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Of this completed network, approximately 2,800 km are already operational, improving freight movement and regional connectivity across the country.
These high-speed corridors are strategically designed to link 41 tribal and aspirational districts, aiming to integrate remote regions with major economic hubs. The government has announced plans to extend an additional 4,300 km, which is expected to benefit ten more districts, further strengthening national logistics and accessibility. Progress on individual segments highlights the government’s focus on speed and quality of execution. In South Gujarat, for instance, the Vadodara–Mumbai Expressway passes through Valsad district in three packages. Package 8, covering 35.4 km with 14.16 km in Valsad, has recorded 4.59 per cent completion, targeting November 2026. Package 9, spanning 26.6 km, has achieved 21.9 per cent progress with a June 2026 deadline. Package 10, covering 24.6 km with 9 km in Valsad, is 35.85 per cent complete and expected by March 2026. Officials emphasise that these timelines are closely monitored to ensure timely delivery of critical infrastructure.
Alongside construction, the authorities are prioritising sustainable and user-friendly amenities along national highways. Wayside facilities are being developed at intervals of 40–60 km, offering public conveniences, parking, eateries, short-term accommodations, and drinking water. Notably, all sites exceeding one hectare will incorporate electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to support India’s clean mobility ambitions. Currently, 4,557 public EV charging points have been installed on national and state highways, with 62 operational within wayside facilities, aligning with broader carbon reduction goals. The push for Greenfield highways is part of a larger effort to improve logistics efficiency, reduce travel time, and facilitate industrial and economic growth in previously underserved regions. Experts note that such infrastructure is vital for connecting hinterlands, reducing freight costs, and supporting equitable regional development.
Officials also highlight that investments in high-quality expressways will have multiplier effects on local economies, creating employment opportunities and encouraging private sector participation through public-private partnerships (PPPs). Enhanced connectivity is expected to strengthen supply chains, improve access to essential services, and make travel safer and more sustainable. India’s rapid progress in Greenfield expressway construction underscores a commitment to modern infrastructure, eco-friendly transport solutions, and inclusive regional development, establishing a model for future corridors nationwide.
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