Infrastructure Must Be People-Centric, says Nitin Gadkari

• Nitin Gadkari stresses people-centric, sustainable infrastructure development.
• 670 roadside amenities developed to enhance traveller convenience.
• Ministry’s revenue to rise from ₹55,000 crore to ₹1.4 lakh crore in two years.
• 25,000 km of highways being upgraded; ₹2 lakh crore port connectivity plan underway.

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 28th Oct: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday emphasized that India’s infrastructure must be people-centric, ensuring comfort, convenience, and safety for citizens. Addressing the CII National Conference on “Future of Smart Roads – Safety, Sustainability and Resilience” in New Delhi, Gadkari said the future of infrastructure rests on three pillars — People, Prosperity, and Planning.

Underlining the government’s focus on enhancing public convenience, the Minister informed that 670 roadside amenities have been developed across the country, providing facilities such as rest areas, fuel stations, and food outlets for travellers.

Gadkari announced that the Ministry’s annual revenue, currently at ₹55,000 crore, is projected to rise to ₹1.4 lakh crore within the next two years, reflecting the strong growth potential of India’s infrastructure sector. He added that 25,000 km of two-lane highways are being upgraded to four lanes and that a ₹2 lakh crore port connectivity programme is linking major ports with national highways, significantly improving logistics efficiency.

Highlighting the multiplier impact of infrastructure investments, Gadkari said that every rupee invested in infrastructure generates three rupees of economic growth, driving employment and development. He also noted that improved connectivity has boosted religious tourism and adventure sports across several states.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable development, mentioning initiatives like the transplantation of 8,500 trees along the Dwarka Expressway and the mandatory use of precast technology in road projects to ensure quality and timely completion.

With 80% of goods traffic in India moving by road, Gadkari said that improved road infrastructure will bring down logistics and fuel costs to single-digit levels. He stressed the need for responsible planning and innovation, balancing development with environmental protection, and shaping “Smart Roads” equipped with EV charging points, pedestrian zones, parking, and modern amenities.