Guwahati: Nitin Gadkari Promises US-Standard Roads for Northeast by 2024

GUWAHATI: Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced ambitious plans to revolutionize the road infrastructure in the Northeastern region, drawing a parallel to the roads in the United States of America by the end of 2024. He revealed that the government has embarked on infrastructure development projects spanning a remarkable 17,470 kilometers and valued at a staggering Rs 3 lakh crores within the Northeastern states.

During his visit to the region, where he conducted a review of national highway projects currently underway in Assam and other Northeastern states, Nitin Gadkari addressed reporters at Hotel Radisson Blu. He outlined the government's steadfast commitment to uplifting the region's road network, stating, "We are closely monitoring the projects that are being sanctioned. Before the conclusion of 2024, we aim to introduce roads similar to those in America across the entire Northeastern region."

Gadkari emphasized that local contractors would play a pivotal role in realizing these monumental infrastructural ambitions, commending their efforts. He remarked, "We are going to prioritize local contractors over those from outside, as we have observed that they are delivering commendable results."

The Union Minister acknowledged the support and cooperation of the state government, particularly lauding Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his dedication to the cause. Gadkari assured that all pending issues regarding projects had been diligently addressed.

Providing an overview of the extensive projects in Assam, Gadkari shared that the government would invest approximately Rs 1 lakh crore in 248 projects across the state. "In Assam, we have successfully completed 48 projects, covering 802 kilometers, with upcoming projects valued at Rs 40,863 crores already in the pipeline, coupled with ongoing projects stretching across 1,200 kilometers, worth Rs 37,700 crores," he reported.

Gadkari emphasized the comprehensive development plan for Assam, encompassing 248 projects extending over 4,091 kilometers at a cost of Rs 1 lakh crore. This encompassed a spectrum of initiatives, including upcoming ropeway projects and the establishment of a multimodal hub at Jogighopa.

Expanding the scope to the entire Northeastern region, the Union Minister underscored the monumental efforts undertaken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "A total of 794 projects, covering a cumulative distance of 17,470 kilometers and valued at Rs 3 lakh crores, have been initiated," Gadkari proclaimed, highlighting the transformative endeavors set to reshape the region's road infrastructure and enhance connectivity.

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