Roads Ministry Seeks Approval for Rs,22 Lakh Crore Highway Development Plan
In a significant move to bolster infrastructure, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has sought Cabinet approval for a22 lakh crore highway development plan, targeting the construction of approximately 30,600 km of highways by 2031-32.
The proposal, submitted to the Finance Ministry and shared with key ministries last week, outlines the construction of 18,000 km of expressways and high-speed corridors, the decongestion of 4,000 km of national highways around urban areas, and the development of strategic and international roads. Notably, 35% of the investment is expected to come from the private sector.
Sources from the Times of India reveal that the master plan is divided into two phases. Officials in an inter-ministerial meeting, chaired by Road Transport Secretary Anurag Jain, confirmed that all projects in phase one will be tendered by 2028-29 and completed by 2031-32. The 22 lakh crore budget is allocated solely for phase one projects. The ministry has also requested a 10% annual increase in its budget allocation. The interim budget allocated2,78,000 crore to the ministry, marking a 2.7% increase from the previous year.
The financial requirements for the second phase, which involves developing an additional 28,400 km, will be determined at a later date. The sanctioning and awarding of phase two projects are planned for completion by 2033-34, with construction wrapping up by 2036-37.
The ministry’s development plan is informed by an assessment of GSTN data, analyzing commodities transported by road and rail. The data from 2021-22 shows that 73% of freight was moved by road, with railways handling around 23%. For distances under 350 km, 82% of commodities were transported by road, while for distances over 600 km, 62% were road-transported.
Once the plan is fully realized, the average travel speed for trucks on the national highway network is expected to increase from the current 47 kmph to 85 kmph. In comparison, the average travel speed on highways is over 100 kmph in the US and 90 kmph in China. This speed increase is anticipated to help India reduce logistics costs to 9-10% of GDP.
The development of high-speed corridors aims to ensure accessibility within 100-150 km from any part of India. Presently, only 3,900 km of high-speed corridors are operational, with an expected increase to around 11,000 km by 2026-27.
Karnataka Approves 64 Projects Worth 3,587 Crore
Karnataka has approved 64 projects totaling investments of3,587.67 crore, projected to generate employment for approximately 13,896 people across the state. The approvals were made during the 146th State-Level Single Window Clearance Committee (SLSWCC) meeting held recently. Among the significant approvals are proposals from International Battery Company India Private Limited and River Mobility Private Limited, with planned investments of 390 crore and306.9 crore respectively. These projects are set to enhance equitable investments across various regions of the state, particularly benefiting the districts of North Karnataka. Industries Minister M B Patil, who chaired the meeting, highlighted that the committee approved 13 major projects categorized as large and medium, with capital investments surpassing 50 crore. These projects amount to a total investment of2,046.39 crore and are expected to create employment for around 7,199 people. Additionally, 47 new projects with investments ranging from 15 crore to50 crore were sanctioned, totaling 1,058.55 crore. Four other capital investment schemes amounting to482.73 crore were also approved, which will create employment opportunities for about 150 people. The meeting was attended by several key officials, including Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary & Development Commissioner, Government of Karnataka; Shri Selvakumar S, IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Commerce and Industries; Gunjan Krishna, IAS, Commissioner for Industrial Development and Director, Department of Commerce and Industries; Dodda Basavaraju, MD of Karnataka Udyoga Mitra; Darshan H.V, IAS, Director of Electronics, IT/BT, and other senior officers from various departments.
Renewable energy: Govt approves transmission projects worth 13,595 cr
The Centre recently announced the approval of new Inter State Transmission System (ISTS) schemes to evacuate 9 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy from Rajasthan and Karnataka. The schemes, to be implemented through tariff-based competitive bidding (TBCB) mode, are part of the plan to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with 200 GW already connected. The Rajasthan Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) evacuation scheme will transfer 4.5 GW of power, including 1 GW from the Fatehgarh complex, 2.5 GW from the Barmer Complex, and 1 GW from the Nagaur (Merta) Complex. This power will be routed to the Mainpuri Region, Fatehpur, and Orai in Uttar Pradesh. The project, costing approximately12,241 crore, is expected to be completed within two years. In Karnataka, a system strengthening scheme will evacuate 4.5 GW of renewable energy from the Koppal and Gadag areas. This scheme, with a budget of about Rs.1,354 crore, is slated for completion by June 2027. The government remains focused on expanding transmission and storage capacities to integrate more renewable energy into the grid and ensure grid stability. Earlier this month, Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who recently assumed office, discussed enhancing storage and transmission capacities with senior officials.
A February 2024 report by CareEdge Ratings highlighted that India needs around 12 GW of storage capacity, assuming 4 hours of storage per GW for FY24. This requirement is projected to grow to approximately 70 GW by FY30.
Delhi Metro Station to Feature Three Interchanges with Green Line Expansion
The New Delhi Metro station is set to become a triple interchange facility with the expansion of the Green Line from Inderlok to Indraprastha, officials announced on Sunday. This 12.37 km extension will build upon the existing Brigadier Hoshiar Singh – Inderlok Green Line corridor, which spans 28.78 km.
The New Delhi station will serve as an interchange for three lines: Yellow, Orange (Airport Line), and now the Green Line. This development will significantly enhance connectivity across the city, allowing commuters from Bahadurgarh and parts of west Delhi, including Nangloi, Rajdhani Park, and Udyog Nagar, to travel directly to the New Delhi railway station, which is adjacent to the New Delhi Metro station.
Officials highlighted that this expansion will improve access to the New Delhi station and help reduce congestion, as more people are expected to prefer metro travel over road transport. The new Green Line extension will be underground, similar to the existing New Delhi station.
Currently, Kashmere Gate is the only triple interchange station in the Delhi Metro network, connecting the Yellow, Red, and Violet lines. With Phase 4 of the metro expansion, three more stations—Lajpat Nagar, Azadpur, and New Delhi—will also become triple interchange facilities.
As part of Delhi Metro’s Phase 4 expansion, approximately 86 kilometers of new lines are being constructed. Construction is underway on three lines: Janakpuri West – RK Ashram Marg (Violet), Majlis Park – Maujpur (Pink), and Aerocity – Tughlakabad (Golden), with over 50 percent of civil work completed on these sections.
Earlier this year, two additional corridors—Inderlok – Indraprastha and Saket G Block – Lajpat Nagar—received approval. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is currently processing statutory clearances, including land acquisition from DDA, CPWD, and PWD, as well as forest clearances.
Further steps, including planning and tendering for civil works, are being undertaken before proceeding with specialized contracts for track laying, electrical systems, signaling, and other technical components, officials added.
Dhadhar River Bridge Construction for Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project Completed
The construction of a bridge over the Dhadhar river in Gujarat’s Vadodara district has been completed, marking a significant milestone in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project. The National High Speed Rail Corporation Ltd (NHSRCL) announced on Saturday that the 120-meter bridge features three full-span girders of 40 meters each and several circular piers ranging from 16 to 20 meters in height and 4 to 5 meters in diameter.
Located between Bharuch and Vadodara, the bridge is one of 24 river bridges along the Bullet Train corridor, with 20 in Gujarat and four in Maharashtra.
According to a press statement, “The construction of seven river bridges has already been completed. These rivers are Par, Puma, Mindhola, Ambika, Auranga, Venganiya, and Mohar.”
Indian Railways has previously announced that the first phase of the bullet train project, running between Surat and Bilimora in Gujarat, is expected to be operational by 2026.
Goa Requests Rs.700 Crore for Water Projects, Rs.300 Crore for St Xavier’s Relics Exposition
Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa has requested 700 crore from the Centre for water augmentation projects and an additional300 crore for the decennial exposition of St. Francis Xavier’s relics. Sawant made this appeal during a pre-budget meeting chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi recently, emphasizing that these initiatives are crucial for Goa’s development. The relics of St. Francis Xavier are housed at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, near the state capital, Panaji. The exposition is scheduled from November 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025, and attracts lakhs of visitors from around the world every ten years. In the meeting, Sawant highlighted the need for a 300 crore grant for the exposition, stating its importance for both cultural and religious tourism in Goa. Additionally, he sought700 crore for water augmentation projects and financial support for the Konkan Railway to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth in the state. “The chief minister said these initiatives are essential for Goa’s development, and he expressed certainty that they will be included in the upcoming Union Budget 2024-2025,” the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated. Sawant, who also oversees the state finance department, was in Delhi to participate in both the GST Council meeting and the pre-budget session led by the Union finance minister.
Bengaluru to Get Second Airport: Potential Location Revealed
Karnataka’s Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil has directed officials to prepare a feasibility report for a second commercial airport in Bengaluru to meet the city’s future needs. In a meeting with key department officials, Patil emphasized the necessity of a new airport to support the rapidly growing metropolis. Attending the meeting were N Manjula, Secretary of the Infrastructure Development Department, BC Satish, Managing Director of Karnataka Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation, and DP Prakash, Executive Director.
Indian Railways Successfully Conducts Full Train Trial Run on World’s Highest Chenab Rail Bridge
Indian Railways has successfully conducted a full trial run on the newly constructed Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, connecting Sangaldan in Ramban district to Reasi. This trial follows a successful engine trial run conducted recently.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the successful electric engine trial, highlighting the progress: “The first trial train has successfully run from Sangaldan to Reasi, including crossing the Chenab Bridge. All construction works for the USBRL are nearly finished, with only tunnel No. 1 remaining partially incomplete.”
The 46-km Sangaldan-Reasi stretch is set for inspection over two days by Commissioner of Railways Safety (CRS) D C Deshwal, as the ministry approaches the completion of this ambitious project.
The Chenab Bridge, constructed at a cost of 14,000 crore, aims to address numerous connectivity challenges in Jammu and Kashmir by providing reliable connections in difficult weather and terrain. This bridge is part of the35,000 crore Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, which seeks to significantly enhance connectivity in the region.
Rs.76,000-cr greenfield Vadhavan Port gets Cabinet nod
The Cabinet recently cleared the over76,000 crore Vadhavan deep-sea port project, off Mumbai, on the West Coast of India. The greenfield port, to be constructed in two phases with a total capacity of 23.2 million TEUs, will be a key part of India’s IMEEEC project (India Middle East Europe Economic Connectivity).
According to Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Vadhavan port will act as the main feeder port for IMEEEC. It will also propel cargo-movement to Chabahar Port in Iran and to International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
The port will have a draft of 20 meters thereby allowing mega vessels of 24,000 TEUs to be handled.
Due to its efficient connectivity to hinterland, the cost of logistics will reduce and there is an estimated potential cost saving of $50 to $100 per TEU.
“Vadhavan port with its proposed deep draft and strategic positioning along a prime trade route, is equipped to function as a transhipment port,” Sonowal said.
Road connectivity to the port will be via National Highway-48 and Delhi Mumbai Expressway. The road network will connect it to parts of North and Central India.
The Mumbai-Delhi Western Railway Line and the upcoming Western Dedicated Freight Corridor is located 12 km from the port.
The port will be built on a landlord-model and through PPP.
The first phase of construction is to be completed by 2030 will see capacity creation of 15 million TEUs; while the remaining 8.2 million TEUs will come-up in phase–II that is expected to be completed by 2040.
A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), Vadhavan Ports Projects Ltd has been created with 74 per cent equity stake of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and 26 per cent equity stake with Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB).
The SPV will invest 38,976 crore in constructing basic infrastructure while the private sector is likely to invest around37,244 crore.
The SPV will spend 21,267 crore on Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode for creating basic infrastructure like breakwater, shore protection works, approach trestles, port buildings, internal roads etc. Another17,709 crore will be infused for dredging and reclamation Work.
The terminal operators to invest 37,244 crore for development of berths, terminals, container terminals, Ro-Ro terminal, bulk liquid jetty, among others. According to Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union I&B Minister, all stakeholders were taken on -board and necessary approval obtained, prior to the Cabinet nod. “The strategic location of Vadhavan port will play a huge locational advantage for augmenting economic activity of the North, the North West and Central India,” he said.
PM Modi laid foundation stone of development projects in J-K.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of 84 major developmental projects worth more than1,500 crore in Jammu and Kashmir recently.
According to a PMO release, the inaugurations included projects related to road infrastructure, water supply schemes, and infrastructure in higher education etc.
Additionally, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for projects like the improvement of the Chenani-Patnitop-Nashri Section, the development of Industrial Estates and the construction of six Government Degree Colleges.
The Prime Minister also launched the Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors (JKCIP) Project worth 1,800 crore. The project will be implemented in 90 Blocks across 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir and will have the project outreach of 300,000 households covering 1.5 million beneficiaries. During the visit, PM Modi participated in the ‘Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K’s event at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar. The Prime Minister also distributed appointment letters to more than 2,000 persons appointed in government service. ‘Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of 84 major developmental projects worth more than1,500 crore in Jammu and Kashmir recently.
According to a PMO release, the inaugurations included projects related to road infrastructure, water supply schemes, and infrastructure in higher education etc.
Additionally, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for projects like the improvement of the Chenani-Patnitop-Nashri Section, the development of Industrial Estates and the construction of six Government Degree Colleges.
The Prime Minister also launched the Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors (JKCIP) Project worth 1,800 crore. The project will be implemented in 90 Blocks across 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir and will have the project outreach of 300,000 households covering 1.5 million beneficiaries. During the visit, PM Modi participated in the ‘Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K’s event at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar. The Prime Minister also distributed appointment letters to more than 2,000 persons appointed in government service.
Rajasthan Government Plans Ropeway to Connect Amber, Jaigarh, and Nahargarh Forts
The Rajasthan government has unveiled plans to construct a ropeway spanning 13 kilometres inside the Nahargarh Leopard Sanctuary, aiming to connect the historic Amber, Jaigarh, and Nahargarh forts to enhance tourist accessibility and experience. Unofficial estimates place the project cost at400 crore.
Amber Fort, the state’s most frequented tourist destination, welcomed 2 million visitors in the fiscal year 2023-24, a significant increase from around 1 million in 2021-2022, according to government reports.
Similarly, Nahargarh Fort observed 1.05 million footfalls in 2023-24 compared to 0.7 million in 2021-22, highlighting the growing popularity of these heritage sites.
Officials from the Amber Development and Management Authority (ADMA) recently visited Amber Fort to discuss the ropeway project, which seeks to streamline tourist movement across these forts.
Initially, plans aimed to link Nahargarh Fort with Jal Mahal, situated in the midst of Man Sagar Lake, but have since been revised to connect Amber and Jaigarh forts via the ropeway. The forts are situated within the Nahargarh Leopard Sanctuary, managed by the forest department, which has posed regulatory challenges for the project. However, tourism department officials remain optimistic about securing necessary approvals from the central government.
Simultaneously, the tourism department is enhancing infrastructure around Amber Fort, including the development of parking facilities and upgrades to the light and sound show.
Plans are underway to develop tourist amenities akin to those around the Taj Mahal, with provisions for hotels and restaurants near the fort for visitor convenience, while keeping parking areas situated away from the fort premises.
The ropeway project underscores Rajasthan’s commitment to promoting heritage tourism and improving visitor experiences, reinforcing the state’s position as a premier destination for cultural exploration and historical significance.
Mudaria Railway Station’s Third Line to Enhance Passenger and Freight Efficiency
The introduction of a third line at Mudaria Railway Station, located on the Bilaspur-Katni line under the Bilaspur division of South East Central Railway (SECR), marks a significant advancement in enhancing the operational efficiency for both passenger and freight services in the region. According to an SECR spokesperson, this development is poised to efficiently handle the increasing freight traffic and provide smoother routes for coaching and passenger trains.
A key benefit of this expansion is the improved supply chain management, particularly in facilitating the movement of empty freight rakes for loading at coal mines in the Shahdol and Sohagpur area.
This enhancement is crucial for supporting operations at industrial facilities like the MB Power plant in Jaithari, which plays a pivotal role in local employment generation.
Furthermore, the new infrastructure at Mudaria Railway Station is expected to benefit local businesses such as the Orient Paper Mill in Amlai and facilitate cement loading at Rupaund. These improvements bolster economic growth and create new job opportunities, especially through initiatives spearheaded by entities like the JK Group.
“The commitment of South East Central Railway (SECR) to expand rail infrastructure through projects like tripling and quadrupling of rail lines demonstrates our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of passengers and industries alike,” noted the SECR spokesperson. Upcoming inspections by the NI (Northern India) and CRS (Commissioner of Railway Safety) are anticipated to further boost capacity in the CIC Section, improving connectivity to NKJ (New Katni Junction) station and extending beyond Pendra station for Northern India. SECR’s ongoing investments also aim to enhance connectivity and generate employment opportunities. For instance, the ongoing construction of Bridge No. 196 across the Chhota Mahanadi river underscores these efforts, promising enhanced mobility across the region.
In summary, the addition of the third line at Mudaria Railway Station and SECR’s proactive infrastructure initiatives are set to elevate punctuality, efficiency, and connectivity, laying a solid foundation for regional economic growth and prosperity.
Ramky Infrastructure Limited bags contracts worth 131.19 Crores in the Union Territory of Ladakh
Ramky Infrastructure Limited a leading organization in the realm of infrastructure development has received two orders to implement the distribution of the infrastructural works of Ladakh Power Development Department from Power Grid Energy Services Limited. The first contract worth107.39 Cr (Excluding GST) and the second contract worth 23.80 Cr (Excluding GST) for the supply of plant and installation services respectively, in the districts of Leh & Kargil of UT of Ladakh. PowerGrid Energy Services Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of PowerGrid Corporation of India Limited has awarded the contracts to Ramky Infrastructure Limited to be executed over a period of 30 months. The contracts were awarded for the loss reduction work under the Revamped (results-linked) Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) in the Leh district. The RDSS scheme is intended to minimize the Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses in Ladakh, which are projected to be reduced from 49.04% in 2021-22 to 27.85% by 2024-25. With a sanctioned cost of 687.05 Crores, the RDSS includes the Grid connectivity of the Changthang Region, Downline infrastructure in the Zanskar Region along with the Loss Reduction works in the Leh and Kargil Districts of UT of Ladakh.
The scope of the project broadly involves the construction and commissioning of seven 66KV electricity substations, 70 km of new electricity distribution lines, 550 km of reconditioning by AB cable, and the installation of approximately 400 distribution transformers.
On receiving the contracts in the northernmost union territory of India, Y. R. Nagaraja, Managing Director of Ramky Infrastructure Limited said “We are pleased to be awarded to execute the contracts for the loss reduction works in the Leh district of the Ladakh union territory as it reflects our commitment and adherence to quality standards. This project enhances our capability to develop urban infrastructure projects in challenging and complex terrains. We look forward to executing the contract by late 2027 or early 2028.
The government aims to improve operational efficiency and financial sustainability through these projects. They will offer result-based financial aid to DISCOMs for strengthening supply infrastructure, contingent on meeting pre-qualifying criteria and achieving fundamental benchmarks.
Expansion of Metro Service on New Garia to Airport Corridor Imminent
Construction activities are progressing swiftly across various Kolkata Metro stations along the New Garia-airport corridor, with plans to extend train services up to Beleghata soon. Currently, trains are operational on the 5.40 km stretch from New Garia (Kavi Subhash) to Ruby More (Hemanta Mukhopadhyay) stations, following their inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March. Additional 4.39 km extension to Beleghata has received clearance after thorough safety evaluations, and commercial services on this extended segment are slated to commence shortly.
Meanwhile, work on the entire 28.90 km Orange Line corridor is progressing smoothly, aiming to enhance connectivity and alleviate traffic congestion between New Town, Rajarhat townships, and other parts of Kolkata. Significant strides have been made along the stretch from the IT hub to City Centre-II, with 90% of civil engineering completed and ongoing installations of electrical, signal, and telecommunications systems.
The Orange Line, comprising 10 stations, integrates local art and cultural elements with modern technology. Each station is equipped with essential passenger amenities such as escalators, lifts, staircases, drinking water facilities, toilets, modern platforms, automatic smart card recharge machines (ASCRM), public address systems, digital display boards, emergency lighting, and tactile floor indicators for the visually impaired.
Odisha Approves 903 Crore Investment Proposal in Renewable Energy Sector
The Odisha government has given the green light to investment proposals totaling Rs.903.41 crore in the renewable energy (RE) sector, as per an official statement released recently.
Led by Principal Secretary Vishal Kumar Dev, the Energy Department’s Single Window Committee (SWC) approved these proposals with the objective of achieving Odisha’s renewable energy target of 10 GW by 2030.
HPCL Renewable & Green Energy Ltd has been granted approval to establish a 48-MW wind energy project in Umerkote, Nabarangpur district. Similarly, ONGC Tripura Power Company Ltd has received clearance to develop a 49.5-MW wind energy project in Astaranga, Puri district, according to the statement.
The combined investment for these two wind energy ventures amounts to Rs.881.28 crore.
To date, the SWC of the Energy Department has sanctioned investment proposals totaling Rs 3,723.57 crore, aimed at creating a total capacity of 499.48 MW in the renewable energy sector.
Hosur Industrial Hub Set to Receive International Airport
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin announced plans to construct a new international airport in Hosur during the state assembly sessionrecently, marking a significant development for the burgeoning industrial hub.
The proposed airport will span across 2,000 acres and is expected to handle up to 30 million passengers annually. Hosur, strategically located near key export-import gateways and major industrial clusters including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Sriperumbudur, and Coimbatore, has emerged as a focal point for industries such as automotive and electric vehicle manufacturing, logistics, electronics, and is in the process of establishing an IT park.
Industries Minister T R B Rajaa expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Stalin for greenlighting the airport project, emphasizing its potential to boost Hosur’s economic landscape. Rajaa, who had previously advocated for the airport during his tenure with the State Planning Commission, highlighted Hosur’s proximity to Bengaluru and Chennai, underscoring its potential to become a key economic driver in the region.
“The announcement of the Hosur airport is a monumental step forward,” remarked Rajaa. “This project will significantly enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth across Hosur and neighboring districts like Dharmapuri and Salem. With its favorable climate, the airport will foster a twin-city ecosystem with Bengaluru, catalyzing growth in both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.”
Hosur currently hosts major operations of prominent companies including Tata Electronics, TVS, Ashok Leyland, Titan, and Rolls-Royce, further cementing its status as a pivotal industrial hub.
“The establishment of an airport in Hosur will be transformative, providing substantial infrastructure development and economic benefits,” commented Jeyaranjan, vice-chairperson of the State Planning Commission. “This visionary project reflects the proactive leadership of Chief Minister Stalin and the persistent efforts of Minister Rajaa. It will undoubtedly elevate Hosur’s connectivity, attract new investments, and solidify its position as a pivotal industrial and economic center.”
Chaitanya Projects Consultancy Completes Transformative 4-Lane Dedicated Coal Corridor
Chaitanya Projects Consultancy Pvt. Ltd., visionary leaders in integrated infrastructure consultancy across India, announces the successful completion of the dedicated 4-lane Coal Corridor Road from Bankibahal to Bhedabahal (SH 10). The corridor serves as a critical conduit for the region, easing the life of 2.8 lacs villagers of Hemgir, Lefripada, Tangarpali, Bilashakara, and Sadar.
Designed to optimize coal transportation efficiency while prioritizing safety and environmental sustainability, the 7km road is built with concrete instead of bitumen, with an investment of Rs.277 crore. Significantly reducing noise, dust pollution, and accident hazards due to the daily movement of about 200 coal-carrying heavy vehicles. This transformative infrastructure project, spanning 30.811 kilometers, was officially inaugurated on April 23, 2024, marking a major milestone in the state’s infrastructure development.
Sanjay Kumar Sinha, Founder and Managing Director, of Chaitanya Projects Consultancy stated that, “Better road conditions will facilitate more efficient coal transportation, potentially saving significant amounts of money currently lost to delays and blockages. Completing the 4-lane dedicated Coal Corridor Road from Bankibahal to Bhedabahal, is a testament to our commitment to the ongoing pursuit of sustainable development and environmental conservation.”
“We are proud to contribute to Odisha’s infrastructure evolution, aligning with global sustainability goals,” Mr. Sinha added. “This project enhances regional connectivity and underscores our role in shaping a resilient and interconnected future for communities and industries.”
The corridor represents a critical link in Odisha’s infrastructure network this road enhances logistical capabilities and aims to reduce the carbon footprint through innovative engineering and operational excellence.
Under the guidance of the Ministry of Roads and Building Department, Chaitanya Projects Consultancy has implemented the project with a steadfast commitment to international standards and best practices. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable methodologies, the corridor exemplifies Chaitanya’s dedication to advancing India’s infrastructure and sets a benchmark for future projects nationwide. On the sidelines of government infrastructure development, we are aligning 11 more bridges to redefine the landscape of Odhisa.
The completion of this project underscores the government’s steadfast commitment to fostering economic growth, ensuring safety, and protecting the environment. The project was funded by Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd, and constructed by the R & B department of Odisha.
As the corridor opens to traffic, it heralds a new era of progress and advancement for Sundargarh and its surrounding areas.
NHAI Establishes Dedicated Cell to Review National Highway Project DPRs
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) announced the establishment of a dedicated cell to review the detailed project reports (DPRs) of national highway (NH) projects. This move aims to ensure the highest construction standards, cost-effectiveness, and timely completion of NH projects.
Located at NHAI headquarters in New Delhi, the DPR cell will provide expert inputs and enable end-to-end monitoring of DPRs for NH projects. This initiative will standardize the review mechanism, ensuring quality DPRs are prepared and reviewed before project implementation.
A DPR is critical for the successful execution of NH projects, encompassing various surveys, investigations, and designs. The new cell will finalize parameters for all highway components according to IRC specifications and standards.
The DPR cell will consist of a dedicated team of around 40 professionals, including Principal DPR Experts and specialists in road safety, traffic, land acquisition, bridges, tunnels, geotechnical aspects, highway design, and forestry. These experts will develop mechanisms and monitoring systems to ensure uniform implementation of the review process throughout the DPR project lifecycle. The team will also study bid documents and technical schedules, providing cost estimates based on design features.
Additionally, the cell will assist in planning pre-construction activities and integrating projects with the Highway Information Model Software (HIMS). Officials from the cell will undertake site visits to evaluate proposals from DPR/design consultants and suggest innovative practices to enhance the quality of DPRs relevant to each project.
By preparing accurate reports, the DPR cell aims to facilitate the development of world-class national highways, contributing to the nation’s growth.
Bangladesh to Evaluate Indian and Chinese Proposals for Teesta Project: PM Hasina
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh announced that her government would assess proposals from both India and China for a significant project on the cross-border Teesta River, involving the construction of a reservoir, and would select the most beneficial option for the country.
Following her recent visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Hasina described the trip as highly productive, emphasizing that the discussions held would play a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new avenues of cooperation.
“We have received proposals from both China and India regarding the Teesta project. We will evaluate each proposal and choose the one that best serves our national interests,” stated Hasina during a press conference in Dhaka.
Responding to questions about her preference between India and China regarding the Teesta Project, Hasina stressed that Bangladesh’s decisions are guided by its developmental needs and the potential benefits to its people.
“Each proposal will be considered based on factors such as suitability, financial viability, and overall impact on our country,” she added.
China has conducted a physical survey for the project, while India has indicated readiness to undertake further studies for its implementation. The project’s potential geopolitical implications, especially near India’s strategic Siliguri Corridor, have been a topic of consideration.
Regarding the long-standing issue of Teesta River water sharing with India, Hasina expressed that resolving the matter through joint efforts would ease tensions and benefit both nations.
“We have a historical issue with India on the sharing of water from 54 common rivers, including the Teesta. India’s cooperation in developing the Teesta project will also address these concerns,” she affirmed.
Hasina underscored her government’s commitment to maintaining friendly relations with both India and China, highlighting Bangladesh’s independence in its foreign policy decisions. She also addressed concerns about rail connectivity with India, stressing its importance for bilateral trade and economic growth.
In conclusion, Hasina affirmed her upcoming visit to China, following an invitation from the Chinese government, as part of Bangladesh’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international partnerships and advance its national interests.
