Build Highways At Triple Pace: Nitin Gadkari's 'Re-Start-Economy' Mantra

The Minister stressed that transport facilities or infrastructure serve as the backbone of any economy. He asked ministers to personally monitor the situation to avoid red-tape

Gadkari also urged states and UTs to expedite land acquisition as delays hamper the pace of development. (File Photo/ Getty)

Nagpur/New Delhi: Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday held a meeting with states and the union territories (UTs) to take instant action against the blockades which impedes the movement of trucks and lorries, carrying essential goods, at inter-state/UT borders. The Minister asked the states to clear these barriers at the earliest in order to ease the public life during the coronavirus pandemic. Speaking at the meeting, he urged states and UTs to expedite land acquisition as delays hamper the pace of development and asked them to utilize funds which are remaining unused with them to the extent of about Rs 25,000 crore. Gadkari said plans to enhance National Highway construction by 2 to 3 times of the present pace in the next couple of years. The Minister stressed that transport facilities or infrastructure serve as the backbone of any economy. He asked ministers to personally monitor the situation to avoid red-tape. Gadkari gave another interesting suggestion where he proposed that states should think about bringing app-based two-wheelers, particularly in rural areas as well as facilitate styled road projects. The app-based two-wheelers will be in line with Uber or Ola services. Gadkari called upon state transport ministers to explore this approach, given that it will also provide new employment opportunities. He proposed the transportation of labour to factories may be facilitated by duly following the health protocols of maintaining a minimum one-meter distance, wearing masks, use of sanitizers, etc. He also pointed out that providing food and shelter to labour may be ensured while fully observing the norms of social distancing and hygiene. The Ministry of Road Transport also intends to start a helpline to resolve transportation issues as transporters face issues by local administrations. At present as many as 1,315 projects covering 49,238 km worth Rs 5,89,648 crore were under progress, of which 819 projects covering 30,301 km costing about Rs 3,06,250 crore have been delayed.