Paving the Future: New Focus on Highway Quality and Maintenance

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways plans to enhance the quality of National Highways construction and maintenance by 2025. Measures include ratings for concessionaires, a corridor-based infrastructure approach, and completion of major expressways. Efforts aim to support India's economic growth and provide a seamless travel experience.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced a strategic focus on improving the quality and maintenance of National Highways starting in 2025, after a decade-long expansion to 1.46 lakh km. This shift comes amid criticism regarding the construction standards of certain routes.

In response to the backlash, including comments from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a performance rating system for contractors, with evaluations occurring every six months. Such measures aim to ensure accountability and high standards in infrastructure projects.

By adopting a corridor-based development approach, the ministry targets a consistent construction quality and logistics efficiency, contributing to India's economic ambitions. Additional projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway are expected to finish by 2025, complementing efforts to form high-speed corridors for improved travel.

(With inputs from agencies.)