New Delhi: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari conducted a highway project review, focusing on accelerating key corridor projects and improving connectivity across Maharashtra. He directed officials to speed up planning and execution to meet rising transport demands.
During the highway project review, Gadkari examined several major proposals, including six-laning of the Nagpur–Bhandara stretch and Pune–Satara section. He also reviewed four-laning plans for Taloda–Burhanpur and Shirur–Ahilyanagar corridors. These projects aim to ease traffic congestion and improve freight movement.
In addition, he assessed strategic routes such as the Nagpur–Hyderabad corridor and the Gwalior–Nagpur link. Officials said these corridors are critical for regional connectivity and economic integration. Therefore, timely execution remains a priority for the Ministry.
The meeting also covered the Durg–Gadchiroli–Mancherial and Gadchiroli–Kanker corridors. These routes are expected to improve access in remote areas. As a result, they could support industrial growth and logistics efficiency in underdeveloped regions.
Highway project review covers BOT corridors and execution plans
Gadkari further reviewed nine State BOT projects spanning 527 km across Maharashtra. These include key stretches such as Ahilyanagar–Wadala, Jalna–Watur, and Nanded–Deglur corridors. Officials noted that these projects will strengthen highway infrastructure through private sector participation.
Moreover, the Minister stressed the need for better coordination between agencies. He said faster approvals and streamlined processes would reduce project delays. This approach, he added, would ensure timely completion of high-impact infrastructure works.
The review also highlighted the importance of expanding high-density corridors. These routes carry heavy traffic and require urgent capacity upgrades. Consequently, the Ministry plans to prioritise these segments for immediate development.
Officials said the projects would improve connectivity between industrial hubs and urban centres. In turn, this would boost trade, reduce travel time, and enhance logistics networks. The government expects these initiatives to support long-term economic growth in the region.
Overall, the highway project review underlined the Centre’s focus on modernising road infrastructure. It also reinforced the push for efficient execution and sustainable expansion of national highways.
