Mega Projects Powering India’s Progress in 2025
The government's substantial investments in mega infrastructure projects, including highways, railways, power, and defence, are set to drive economic growth in FY 2025-26 and beyond.
Picture courtesy: KNR Construction
India has made significant strides in infrastructure development over the past decade. With the second-largest road network globally, India's National Highway (NH) system now spans 146,145 km, which is more than double its length of 65,569 km in 2004. India's metro network has also expanded rapidly, becoming the third largest in the world with a total length of 1,000 km. The nation has also established itself as a global leader in renewable energy, ranking fifth in installed hydroelectric power capacity.
A major milestone has been reached with the assessment of 208 big-ticket infrastructure projects worth Rs 15.39 lakh crore across various ministries, all aligned with the PM Gati Shakti principles. As of November 2024, 18,926 km of roads were completed under the Bharatmala Pariyojana. The number of operational airports has also seen a remarkable rise, increasing from 74 in 2014 to 157 by September 2024. Under the Smart Cities Mission (SCM), 8,076 projects worth Rs 1,64,706 crore have been sanctioned, with 7,401 projects amounting to Rs 1,54,351 crore already completed, according to data from 100 Smart Cities.
Union Budget 2025-26 has introduced several measures to accelerate infrastructure development and innovation. Notably, Rs 1.5 lakh crore has been allocated as 50-year interest-free loans to states for infrastructure projects. The Budget also focuses on integrating multiple modes of transport, promoting clean infrastructure, and supporting rural growth. The PM Gati Shakti Master Plan is at the core of optimizing logistics, while developments such as electric highways for EVs and sustainable port infrastructure highlight India’s commitment to eco-friendly construction.
As 2025 unfolds, several mega projects in India are nearing completion, setting new benchmarks in engineering and architecture. These projects incorporate advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and world-class design principles, showcasing India's capability to execute large-scale, complex developments successfully.
This article explores seven transformative projects like the Mumbai Coastal Road, Jewar International Airport, Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, Khavda Renewable Energy Park, Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway, Navi Mumbai International Airport, and Anji Khad Bridge.
Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP)
The Mumbai Coastal Road Project (MCRP) is an ambitious infrastructure endeavor designed to connect Marine Drive with the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL). Launched in December 2018, the project is being executed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) with AECOM serving as the general consultant. Spanning 29.20 km along Mumbai’s western coastline, the project is divided into two key segments: Princess Flyover to Worli Sea Link and Bandra Sea Link to Kandivali Junction. The construction includes tunnels, bridges, roads on stilts, landfill roads, and elevated roads, all designed to minimize disruption to the surrounding mangroves.
Credits-L&T Construction
Current Status
MCRP is nearing a significant milestone with the opening of the second arm of the bow-string bridge. This new section will directly link the coastal road to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL), facilitating smoother southbound traffic flow. Three more interchange arms at Worli are set to become operational, enhancing connectivity to Bindu Madhav Thackeray Chowk and providing seamless access from the northbound Coastal Road carriageway to Prabhadevi.
Currently, the southbound carriageway from Worli to Marine Drive and the northbound stretch from Marine Drive to Worli (extending to the Sea Link via the southbound connector) are already operational. By May 2025, the promenade and public underpasses are expected to open, offering recreational spaces for citizens along the scenic coastal stretch. Furthermore, the development of 70 hectares of open space on reclaimed land and the construction of car parks at Breach Candy, Haji Ali, and two locations in Worli are progressing steadily.
Construction Methods
MCRP showcases Larsen & Toubro’s (L&T) innovative construction methodologies, which emphasize efficiency and precision. A key highlight is the use of a monopile foundation system for the main bridge and interchange, a groundbreaking alternative to traditional pile group arrangements. This approach has resulted in significant cost and time savings. The project also employs Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), with TBM ‘Mavala’ achieving record-breaking performance, further demonstrating L&T’s expertise in executing large-scale infrastructure projects.
The project’s design includes gravity-defying raised carriageways, exemplifying the engineering marvels being realized along Mumbai’s coastline. Challenges such as constructing an interchange bridge with a 75-meter radius over the sea have been addressed through meticulous planning and execution, ensuring the safety and structural integrity of the infrastructure.
NBM-Worli Interchange - Source-BMC
Environmental and Economic Benefits
MCRP is poised to deliver transformative environmental and economic benefits to Mumbai. It is estimated to reduce daily fuel consumption by 34%, resulting in annual cost savings of approximately $100 million for commuters. The project will significantly lower the city’s carbon footprint, cutting emissions by an estimated 1826 tCO2e (metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent) per annum.
The opening of the southbound carriageway between Worli and Marine Drive is expected to reduce travel time from 40 minutes to just 9 minutes, enhancing commuter convenience and further contributing to fuel savings. Notably, this marks the first time in India that a four-lane coastal road has been constructed entirely on land reclaimed from the sea, supported by monopiles—a groundbreaking engineering achievement.
Credits-L&T Construction
The project incorporates extensive green initiatives, including the development of 175 acres of coastal gardens. These green spaces will be cultivated over time, contributing to the city’s biodiversity and improving the overall quality of life for residents. By integrating sustainable features, MCRP ensures a balance between environmental preservation and urban development, making it a model for future infrastructure projects.
Noida International Airport (Jewar Airport)
Noida International Airport, also known as Jewar Airport, is a greenfield project designed to serve as the second international airport for the National Capital Region (NCR). Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the airport on November 26, 2021. Spanning 1,334 hectares, the airport will be developed in four phases at an estimated cost of Rs 29,650 crore. Upon completion, it will have an initial capacity of 12 million passengers annually, eventually expanding to 70 million passengers, making it India’s largest airport and one of the largest in Asia.
The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) allocated 5,100 hectares for the project, and Zurich Airport International AG was selected as the concessionaire to develop the six-runway airport. Scheduled to commence operations in April 2025, the airport will initially handle around 30 flights daily for both domestic and international routes. Zurich Airport International AG will manage the airport’s operations for the next 40 years.
Source - Haptic Architects-
Current Status
As of January 2025, significant progress has been made on the airport’s development. The 3.9-kilometer runway is complete, and the terminal building is nearing completion. The Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower has been fully constructed and is equipped for testing. The first phase of development is over 85% complete, with the first flight validation test successfully conducted on December 9, 2024. The airport remains on track to begin commercial operations by April 2025.
Sustainability Initiatives
The Noida International Airport will feature an eight-acre forest and 133 hectares of dedicated green space. Already, 580 trees, including peepal and banyan, have been transplanted in designated sites. Additional green initiatives include the use of renewable energy, rainwater harvesting, an onsite waste management facility, a sewage treatment plant, and electric ground support equipment.
The project also incorporates innovative technology, such as the Nanogence Catalyst, a patented smart activator that enhances the binding efficiency of cementitious materials. This technology improves material performance while reducing carbon emissions.
Source - Tata Projects
Renewable Energy Integration
Noida International Airport (NIA) has taken a significant step toward sustainability by partnering with Tata Power, one of India’s largest integrated power companies. This collaboration involves a total investment of Rs 550 crore in solar and wind power supply, along with the development of essential dry utilities and smart energy infrastructure. A comprehensive Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) ensures that the airport’s clean energy requirements are met.
Under this partnership, Tata Power Trading Company Limited (TPTCL) will supply 10.8 MW of wind power to NIA. Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd. (TPREL) will develop, operate, and maintain a 13 MW onsite solar power facility. Together, these wind and solar installations will fulfill more than half of the airport’s energy needs.
Source - Tata Projects
Highlighting the importance of this partnership, Christoph Schnellmann, CEO of Noida International Airport, stated, “Partnering with Tata Power represents a major step forward in our sustainability journey. By sourcing more than half of our energy needs from renewable sources, we are taking decisive action toward a more sustainable future. This agreement reflects our long-term vision for Noida International Airport to become a leader in environmentally conscious airport operations.”
Design
Zurich Airport International selected Haptic, in collaboration with Nordic, Grimshaw, and STUP, to design Jewar Airport. The design draws inspiration from Indian architecture and incorporates elements that contribute to sustainable operations. For instance, the terminal’s central landscaped courtyard will allow natural light and ventilation, reducing energy costs and the carbon footprint. The campus landscaping is designed not only for aesthetic appeal but also for utilitarian value.
Source Tata Projects
The terminal forecourt will feature flights of steps, reminiscent of the ghats of Varanasi and Haridwar, symbolizing unity and welcoming travelers. The courtyard, designed to evoke the feeling of a traditional haveli, will bring fresh air and sunlight into the terminal building. A white, translucent, wavy roof inspired by the region’s rivers will create the illusion of flowing water. Intricate ornamental lattice screens, inspired by Indian architectural motifs, will adorn the passenger terminal. Together, these design elements will make Noida International Airport a grand entryway to Uttar Pradesh, blending modernity with cultural heritage.
Delhi-Mumbai Expressway
The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is a monumental infrastructure project that is reshaping India’s transportation landscape. Spanning 1,350 kilometers, this 8-lane expressway will connect New Delhi to Mumbai. It will reduce the travel distance between the two cities by 12%, from 1,424 kilometers to 1,242 kilometers, and cut travel time by 50%, from 24 hours to just 12 hours. According to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the Expressway will also lower India’s logistics costs from 14-16% to 9%, significantly boosting the country’s export competitiveness.
NBM-Interchange near Dausa, Rajasthan, Source-NHAI
Traversing six states—Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra—the Expressway will link major cities such as Jaipur, Kota, Indore, Bhopal, Vadodara, and Surat. It will serve 93 PM Gati Shakti Economic Nodes, 13 ports, 8 major airports, and 8 multi-modal logistics parks (MMLPs). The Expressway will feature spurs to upcoming greenfield airports, including Jewar Airport, Navi Mumbai Airport, and JNPT Port. By catalyzing economic growth in adjacent regions, the project is poised to play a pivotal role in India’s economic transformation.
Project Execution and Current Status
Credits- NHAIThe project is being executed in 52 packages, with 31 under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model, and the remaining 21 under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM). The HAM approach combines elements of EPC and Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) models, with the government providing 40% of the project cost in milestone-linked tranches and contractors arranging the remaining 60%.
As of now, 82% of the construction is complete, with sections being opened in phases as interchanges become operational. In Rajasthan, 327 kilometers out of the planned 373 kilometers are already functional, including the recently opened 80-kilometer stretch between Kota and Bundi. Other operational sections include the 245-kilometer Sohna-Dausa stretch, the 293-kilometer Dausa-Sawai Madhopur section, and the 405-kilometer Vadodara-Bharuch segment. These milestones underscore the steady progress of this large-scale infrastructure endeavor.
Sustainable Design and Green Initiatives
The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway has been designed with sustainability as a core principle, incorporating numerous eco-friendly features to minimize environmental impact. Rainwater harvesting provisions have been installed at 500-meter intervals, with over 2,000 water recharge points along the route. A dedicated three-meter-wide corridor has been allocated for utility lines, including fiber optic cables, pipelines, and solar power generation. To protect wildlife, the Expressway’s alignment avoids protected forests and includes animal overpasses and underpasses to ensure safe wildlife movement.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has further bolstered the project’s green credentials through its maiden Green Bond issue, raising ₹775 crore. These funds will support environmentally sustainable initiatives such as constructing animal crossings, planting tree cover, installing solar-powered streetlights, and creating natural stormwater drainage systems. Additional efforts include recycling construction waste and fly ash, implementing rainwater harvesting systems, and excavating ponds to enhance water conservation.
NBM-Completed expressway near Sohna, Haryana, Source-NHAI
Record-Breaking Achievements
The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway has set several records during its construction, showcasing its scale, speed, and efficiency. PNC Infratech Limited achieved a milestone by laying the highest quantity of bituminous mix within 100 hours on the 8-lane Delhi-Vadodara Greenfield Alignment section. Patel Infrastructure set a world record by constructing a 2.58-kilometer stretch of 4-lane cement concrete road in just 24 hours in Vadodara, Gujarat—a feat recognized by both the India Book of Records and the Golden Book of World Records. Another notable achievement was the completion of a 26-kilometer single-lane road on the Sholapur-Bijapur section in just 22 hours.
Technology
The Expressway employs cutting-edge paving technologies to ensure durability, efficiency, and high-quality construction. One such innovation is the Echelon Paving methodology, which minimizes temperature differences between paved lanes to create an integral bond between asphalt strips. This method addresses common issues like improper bonding at longitudinal joints, ensuring a strongly interlocked joint that prevents water intrusion, oxidation, and raveling—factors that could otherwise reduce pavement lifespan.
The Hot and Hot Joint paving technique, central to Echelon Paving, maintains uniform density and eliminates weak longitudinal joints, resulting in jointless, durable pavements. Beyond its technical advantages, this method increases production efficiency, simplifies cross-slope maintenance, and reduces long-term repair costs. These innovations have established the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway as a benchmark for modern road construction, setting new standards in quality and sustainability.
Khavda Renewable Energy Park
The Khavda Renewable Energy Park, located near Vighakot village in the Kutch district of Gujarat, is poised to become one of the world’s largest renewable energy parks, harnessing both solar and wind energy. With an estimated cost of ₹150,000 crore (approximately $17 billion), this ambitious project spans 726 sq.km —equivalent to the size of countries like Bahrain and Singapore. Upon completion, it is expected to significantly boost India’s renewable energy capacity and contribute to reducing carbon emissions.
The Park is designed to deliver an impressive 30 GW of combined solar and wind power capacity, enough to power approximately 18 million homes. This marks a substantial leap forward in sustainable energy production and underscores India’s commitment to renewable energy. The project is a collaborative effort involving multiple entities, including Adani Green Energy Limited, Sarjan Realities, NTPC, Gujarat Industries Power Company Limited (GIPCL), Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited (GSECL), and Adani Power.
Credits- Adani Renewables
Development and Infrastructure
Inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2020, construction of the Park began in 2022. The project has involved extensive infrastructure development, including the construction of 100 km of roads, 50 km of drainage systems, and the establishment of desalination and reverse osmosis (RO) plants with a combined capacity of 70 cubic meters per hour to meet the drinking water needs of the project staff. About 180 km of optical fiber cables have been laid to ensure high-speed connectivity, and concrete batching plants have been set up to support construction activities.
Credits- Adani Renewables
Current Status
As of early 2025, the Khavda Renewable Energy Park has made significant progress toward becoming a global renewable energy hub. Over 1,000 MW of renewable energy capacity is already operational, and the park is on track to achieve its target of 30 GW by 2026. Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) has operationalized 1,000 MW of solar power within the park, while other developers are advancing their projects. For instance, NTPC is developing a 397.7 MW solar photovoltaic project, which is nearing commercial operations, and NHPC is constructing a 200 MW solar power plant set for commissioning in 2025.
Gensol Engineering Limited has also secured an INR 967.98 crore EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contract for a 245 MW Solar PV Project at the park, further accelerating its development.
Credits- Adani Renewables
Technology and Innovations
Credits- Adani RenewablesThe Khavda Renewable Energy Park incorporates cutting-edge technologies to maximize efficiency and sustainability. It features India’s largest onshore wind turbine generator with a capacity of 5.2 MW, bifacial solar PV modules that generate energy from both sides, and horizontal single-axis tracker systems that optimize energy collection by tracking the sun’s movement. The Park leverages Adani’s Energy Network Operation Centre (ENOC) platform, which integrates Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for real-time automated operation and monitoring.
To address dust accumulation on solar panels, the project employs waterless robotic cleaning systems, conserving water in the arid Kutch region and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6. Adani Infra, AGEL’s execution partner, has developed innovative solutions tailored to the Park’s unique challenges. For example, underground stone columns have been deployed to enhance soil strength, a solution developed through global collaboration with domestic and international institutions. Specialized corrosion-resistant coatings are also being used for solar module mounting structures and switchyard equipment to ensure long-term durability in the highly corrosive environment.
Challenges
The project faces several challenges, including the region’s harsh environmental conditions. Humid air, salty water, and saline soil complicate construction and maintenance, while heavy dust storms from March to June further hinder operations. Security concerns also arise due to the Park’s proximity to the Pakistan border.
Lack of basic facilities, such as mobile networks, has made it difficult to retain workers. Initially, the site lacked roads, communication infrastructure, and access to essential services. To mitigate these issues, 180 km of optical fiber cables were laid to provide high-speed connectivity, improving coordination and ensuring smoother operations.
Despite these challenges, the Khavda Renewable Energy Park represents a transformative step in India’s renewable energy landscape, combining advanced technology, innovative solutions, and strategic collaboration to achieve its ambitious goals.
Navi Mumbai International Airport
The Navi Mumbai International Airport, officially known as DB Patil International Airport Navi Mumbai, is a significant infrastructure project in Maharashtra. Spanning 1,160 hectares, the airport is being developed at an estimated cost of ₹16,700 crore. The foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 18, 2018, and construction began in August 2021, following more than three years of land acquisition. The City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra Ltd. (CIDCO) was appointed as the nodal agency by the Maharashtra government to oversee the development of this greenfield international airport under the public-private partnership (PPP) framework. The Adani Group is the concessionaire responsible for the airport's development.
The project is being executed in four phases, with Phase 1 awarded to Larsen & Toubro. The contract includes cut and fill works, terminal construction (including departure and arrival forecourts), airfield development featuring a 3,700-meter-long runway, apron systems, taxiways, and airfield ground lighting. Additional infrastructure includes multi-level car parking, utilities, and supporting facilities. The airport will have two parallel runways, each 3,700 meters long and 60 meters wide.
Credits-NMIA
Current Status
The Navi Mumbai International Airport is in its final construction phase and is expected to commence operations this year. A successful commercial flight test was conducted in December 2024, with an IndiGo A320 landing on runway 08/26. The airport, upon completion of its first phase, will handle 20 million passengers annually. The entire project is scheduled for completion by 2032, with an ultimate capacity of 90 million passengers per year. Adani Group's Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIAL), which will operate as the second aviation hub for Mumbai, plans to raise ₹20,000 crore in the second half of FY26 to fund the next phase of development. This phase is expected to be operational by 2029.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a core focus in the airport's design and development. Various eco-friendly initiatives have been integrated to minimize environmental impact and promote green infrastructure. Solar panels will be installed on the airside and rooftops to harness renewable energy, while electric vehicles (EVs) will be deployed across both airside and landside areas to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
To further minimize emissions, an Automated People Mover (APM) system will enhance connectivity within the airport premises, reducing vehicular pollution. The airport will also feature water retention tanks, ponds, and other water conservation systems.
A significant sustainability measure is the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which is projected to contribute to around 65% of the emission reductions needed for the aviation sector to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The airport will incorporate extensive tree plantations, large green spaces, and waste recycling programs, including organic waste processing and wastewater treatment. Skylights integrated into the terminal roof will maximize natural lighting, reducing energy consumption. Robust public transport connectivity will be encouraged to minimize private vehicle use.
A notable feature is the extensive rainwater harvesting system. Large volumes of rainwater collected during the monsoon will be stored in underground tanks for use during the dry season. This initiative reduces dependence on municipal water supplies and aligns with sustainable resource management practices.
Source- CIDCO
Technology
The airport is being developed with state-of-the-art technology to enhance operational efficiency and safety. Adani Group, in collaboration with EPC contractor Larsen & Toubro, has partnered with ADB SAFEGATE to implement Airfield 4.0 technology. This includes an advanced airfield lighting system designed for seamless integration with Level 4 Advanced Surface Guidance and Control System (A-SMGCS). The system will allow precise aircraft routing and guidance, incorporating Follow the Greens technology, which illuminates a guided pathway with green lights for aircraft movement.
Aziz Cakir, VP for the Middle East and Africa at ADB SAFEGATE, stated, "The new AXON lights with intelligence provide significant long-term maintenance advantages. Along with LINC 360, they are best suited for the Follow the Greens concept, enabling aircraft tracking and guided taxiway movement."
The airport will also be the first in India to introduce Automated Passenger Movement (APM) across its expansive 1,600-hectare site. A 10-km automated system will connect terminals and airside operations, facilitating seamless movement and reducing congestion. This feature, common in leading European airports, will significantly enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.
Flight Test Credits-NMIA
Design
Designed by world-renowned Zaha Hadid Architects, under the leadership of Project Director Cristiano Ceccato, the airport features a blend of cultural symbolism and contemporary aesthetics. Inspired by the graceful symmetry of the lotus flower, the terminal structures reflect both Indian heritage and futuristic design principles.
The design also addresses Mumbai’s extreme climatic conditions. The terminal roof functions as a massive sunshade, protecting the structure from intense heat while serving as a barrier against monsoon rains. The sloped roof incorporates angled drainage channels that efficiently direct water to oversized gutters, ensuring smooth drainage and preventing water accumulation during heavy rains.
Challenges
The development of Navi Mumbai International Airport has faced multiple challenges. One of the most complex tasks was the excavation of Ulwe Hill, which had to be reduced from 92 meters to just 8 meters. Eight villages with numerous hutments were located within a hundred-meter radius of the hill, necessitating controlled and safe blasting operations. CSIR-CIMFR played a crucial role in monitoring and guiding these operations to ensure safety and minimal environmental impact.
Land acquisition, rehabilitation, and resettlement were also significant hurdles. Resistance from local communities delayed the process for years. CIDCO had to relocate ten villages within the airport's core area, impacting nearly 3,000 families. To facilitate the transition, a record 22.5% developed land compensation, along with additional incentives, was offered to project-affected persons (PAPs).
Securing environmental approvals from both Central and State Governments posed another challenge. Delays, along with changes in the concessionaire, further complicated the process. The diversion of the Ulwe and Gadhi rivers raised concerns about potential flooding, while environmentalists expressed apprehensions regarding the impact on mangroves in the tidal zones of the Panvel Creek. Given that the site falls within the Coastal Regulation Zone, extensive mitigation measures were implemented to protect marine and aquatic ecosystems.
Despite these challenges, the project has progressed steadily, supported by robust transport connectivity and essential infrastructure, including housing for the workforce involved in the development. Once operational, Navi Mumbai International Airport is set to become a crucial aviation hub, significantly decongesting Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and bolstering India's air travel infrastructure.
Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway
The Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway, also known as the Awadh Expressway, is a significant infrastructure project currently under construction in India. Built on the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model, the Expressway was initially planned as a six-lane road but was later upgraded to an eight-lane configuration. Spanning 63 kilometres, the project is estimated to cost INR 4,700 crore. Once operational, it will drastically reduce travel time between Kanpur and Lucknow from three hours to just 35-45 minutes, significantly enhancing connectivity between the two cities.
The Expressway will link Shaheed Path in Lucknow to Nawabganj in Kanpur, passing through key regions such as Banthra, Bani, Datouli Kantha, Taura, Nyaurana, Amarsas, and Rawal Marg. It will also integrate with the Lucknow Ring Road, providing seamless connectivity to multiple regional routes and facilitating smoother intercity travel.
Project Structure and Progress
The Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway has been divided into two civil packages to ensure efficient execution. PNC Infratech, the primary contractor, was awarded both packages by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Package 1 covers the stretch from Km 10.980 to Km 28.500, extending from Amausi to Bani, while Package 2 spans from Km 28.500 to Km 73.744, covering the section from Bani to Ata. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) was prepared by Egis India Consulting Engineers Pvt. Ltd.
The Expressway will feature three large bridges, 28 smaller bridges, and 38 underpasses, ensuring uninterrupted travel. Six flyovers have been designed to minimise traffic congestion and enhance commuter convenience. Construction is progressing rapidly, with over half of the work already completed, including the greenfield section and 80% of the elevated road. The Expressway is expected to become operational this year.
Technological Advancements
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a pilot project on the Lucknow-Kanpur Greenfield Expressway, utilising Automated & Intelligent Machine-aided Construction (AIMC) technology. This innovative approach employs GPS-aided motor graders, intelligent compactors, and stringless pavers to improve construction efficiency and quality.
AIMC technology is anticipated to reduce construction time, enhance productivity, enable real-time digital monitoring, and ensure superior surface leveling and uniform compaction. Encouraged by the success of this pilot project, the government is developing a policy framework to integrate AIMC technology into future National Highway projects.
Speaking at a stakeholder consultation workshop organised by NHAI in New Delhi, Shri Nitin Gadkari emphasised the importance of technological adoption, stating, “Technology is a great enabler, and the use of Automated & Intelligent Machine-Aided Construction is a step in the right direction. The success of the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway pilot project paves the way for implementing this technology in other projects as well.”
The Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway represents a transformative infrastructure development, combining advanced technology and strategic planning to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth.
Anji Khad Bridge
The Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, is a landmark infrastructure project located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. It forms a critical part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, connecting Katra and Reasi. Spanning 725.5 meters with a towering pylon reaching 331 meters in height, the bridge is designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 213 km/h and support trains traveling at 100 km/h. The structure is supported by 96 cables connected to a single pylon, showcasing a remarkable feat of engineering. Constructed by Hindustan Construction Company (HCC), with a portion of the project executed by the Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd., the bridge stands as a testament to India’s growing expertise in complex infrastructure development. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has hailed both the Anji Khad Bridge and the Chenab Bridge as unparalleled examples of engineering excellence that drive economic progress and regional prosperity.
Source-HCC & Source - Comansa 2
Current Status
After facing multiple delays, including missed deadlines in 2017 and 2022, the construction of the Anji Khad Bridge has been completed. A successful trial run of a tower wagon was conducted on the bridge, marking a significant milestone. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw described the bridge as an “engineering marvel,” emphasizing its importance to the region. With the trial run completed, rail services are expected to commence by mid-2025, bringing enhanced connectivity and economic opportunities to Jammu and Kashmir.
Technology and Innovation
The Anji Khad Bridge incorporates an advanced integrated monitoring system equipped with numerous sensors to track its structural health and performance over time. This system is critical for ensuring the bridge’s long-term safety and durability, particularly given the region’s seismic activity. Designed to accommodate trains traveling at 100 km/h, the bridge employs state-of-the-art construction techniques and advanced equipment. These include the DOKA jump form shuttering system and a 40-tonne tower crane imported from Spain, which improved safety and efficiency while reducing construction time by approximately 30%.
The design and construction supervision of the bridge were managed by ITALFERR, an Italian company (part of the Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane Group), with proof-checking conducted by COWI, a UK-based firm. The project seamlessly integrated Indian engineering codes with Eurocodes where necessary, ensuring compliance with international standards.
Challenges
Constructing the Anji Khad Bridge in the challenging terrain of the Himalayan mountains posed significant difficulties. The region’s complex geology, characterized by faults, folds, and thrusts, required meticulous planning and execution. Site-specific investigations were carried out by IIT Roorkee and IIT Delhi to assess the geological conditions and ensure the bridge’s stability.
The project also faced logistical challenges due to the need to hoist extremely diverse loads. To address this, HCC utilized a tower crane equipped with an automatic trolley change, such as those manufactured by Comansa. These measures were essential to overcoming the unique obstacles presented by the site and ensuring the successful completion of this engineering marvel.
