Addressing the inaugural session, Gadkari said the Chintan Shivir provides a platform for the Centre and states to share field-level experiences and develop practical solutions to challenges in highway development. He called for successful practices adopted by different states to be evaluated and replicated where appropriate to improve project implementation and infrastructure outcomes.
Gadkari stressed the need to focus on quality, safety, speed and world-class standards in highway development. He highlighted the importance of better preparation at the Detailed Project Report (DPR) stage, including surveys, alignment planning, land acquisition, utility shifting and timely statutory clearances. He said stronger preparation during the initial stages could help reduce project delays and cost escalation.
The minister also emphasised integrating road safety into highway planning and design. He called for early identification of accident-prone locations and incorporation of appropriate safety measures during the planning and construction stages.
The conclave will also focus on the role of highway infrastructure in connecting cities, towns, ports, markets and industrial centres. Gadkari called for coordinated efforts between the Centre, states and implementing agencies to ensure timely delivery of infrastructure.
The two-day Chintan Shivir includes sessions on PM GatiShakti and integrated infrastructure planning, land acquisition and Bhoomi Rashi, Model Concession Agreements and ratings, safe and green highways, road safety and toll reform, and quality assurance and project monitoring.
Gadkari called for greater adoption of new technologies, innovative construction practices and cost-effective materials to improve highway quality and reduce construction and maintenance costs. He also stressed the importance of research, technology adoption and sharing of field-level innovations among states and implementing agencies.
Sustainability and environmental protection are also part of the conclave’s agenda. Gadkari highlighted the use of environment-friendly construction practices and recycled materials, along with measures for environmental and wildlife protection. A document on Environment & Wildlife Mitigation Measures was launched during the inaugural session.
A BRICS Compendium on Perspectives in Sustainable Transport was also launched, bringing international perspectives on sustainable transport into the discussions.
The minister also highlighted technology-driven initiatives such as FASTag Annual Pass and Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF), aimed at improving tolling efficiency, traffic movement and the highway user experience.
The Chintan Shivir will continue with discussions on project planning and monitoring, highway quality and safety, sustainable construction and technology adoption, with the objective of identifying practical and replicable solutions for faster delivery of highway infrastructure.
