The Maharashtra Cabinet has sanctioned a major infrastructure overhaul, deciding to concretise nearly 6,000 kilometres of state roads instead of the previously planned asphalt surfacing. This significant shift in strategy has led to an increase in the estimated expenditure from Rs28,500 crore to Rs37,000 crore.
This ambitious project will see the roads transferred to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) for a period of 17.5 years. The revised plan is set to enhance the durability and longevity of the state’s road network, aligning with the state’s broader infrastructure development goals.
The updated cost projection also affects Maharashtra’s contribution under the Hybrid Annuity Scheme (HAS), a public-private partnership (PPP) model designed to foster infrastructure development. The state’s financial commitment under this scheme has risen by Rs2,589 crore, bringing the total expenditure to Rs11,089 crore. This scheme allows for a shared financial burden and risk distribution between the government and private entities, promoting efficient infrastructure development. The decision marks a substantial investment in the state’s infrastructure, aiming to improve road quality and durability across Maharashtra. The move from asphalt to concrete is anticipated to offer enhanced road performance and longevity, addressing the growing demands on the state’s transportation network.
Under the Hybrid Annuity Scheme, the government and private companies collaborate to finance and manage the project, thereby distributing the associated risks and costs. This approach is expected to accelerate infrastructure development while ensuring long-term sustainability and maintenance of the roads. The Maharashtra Cabinet’s endorsement of this project underscores the state’s commitment to upgrading its infrastructure, which is crucial for supporting economic growth and improving connectivity within Maharashtra. The road concretisation initiative is poised to significantly impact regional development and enhance the overall quality of transportation infrastructure in the state.
