PM Gati Shakti approves five highway projects worth Rs 15,683-cr

The Network Planning Group (NPG) of the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan has given the green light to five highway projects, amounting to Rs 15,683 crore, across four states. The approved projects include mitigation measures in Uttarakhand, two projects in Maharashtra, one in Kanpur, and a bypass tunnel for Aizawl in Mizoram. With these additions, the total number of approved projects by the NPG has reached 85, with investments totaling Rs 5.4 trillion.

The NPG, consisting of representatives from various infrastructure ministries, ensures that infrastructure projects align with the objectives of the Gati Shakti Master Plan. All projects exceeding Rs 500 crore require NPG approval to ensure their planning integrates with existing or planned infrastructure in the area, maximizing the potential of the proposed investments.

During the 51st meeting of the group, Sumita Dawra, Special Secretary (Logistics) from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, stated that the inclusion of slurry pipelines, similar to petroleum pipelines, has been requested by the Ministry of Steel. The inclusion of slurry pipelines in the Gati Shakti Framework will streamline planning and accelerate the alignment process, reducing logistics costs for transporting iron ore and bauxite.

The Gati Shakti Plan aims to enhance the impact of each project by coordinating planning across various sectors, including industrial corridors, roads, railways, ports, telecom, urban development projects, petroleum pipelines, renewable energy, and the social sector. By aligning projects, the plan seeks to optimize resources and promote holistic development in different regions.