Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has made a bold promise: India’s roads will be comparable to those in the United States within the next two years. Addressing a recent public gathering, Gadkari highlighted the government’s ongoing infrastructure initiatives aimed at transforming the country’s road network through advanced technology, sustainable practices, and world-class engineering.
India’s road infrastructure is currently undergoing rapid development under various national programs such as the Bharatmala Pariyojana. As of 2024, highway construction is progressing at a pace of approximately 30 kilometers per day, with plans to increase this rate. Gadkari expressed confidence that upcoming projects will set new benchmarks in quality, safety, and speed.
According to the minister, several aspects will contribute to achieving American-style road standards. These include smoother surfaces, better road safety mechanisms, improved toll systems using FASTag, and the implementation of smart traffic management solutions. He also emphasized the introduction of access-controlled expressways and the use of advanced materials to enhance durability and driving comfort.
“India is building a new generation of expressways with limited access, minimal curves, and superior construction quality. Our focus is not just on building roads but on improving the entire travel experience,” Gadkari stated.
Major infrastructure projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, Ganga Expressway, and Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway are already being developed using international design standards. These highways include features such as emergency lay-bys, dedicated service lanes, noise barriers, and provisions for electric vehicle charging stations.
Efforts are also being made to upgrade urban road systems in coordination with state authorities. This includes constructing elevated corridors, flyovers, and ring roads to reduce traffic congestion and improve urban mobility. The government is increasingly relying on modern techniques such as pre-cast construction and public-private partnership (PPP) models to ensure timely completion of projects.
Gadkari also pointed out the importance of sustainable practices in infrastructure development. He mentioned the use of recycled materials like plastic and fly ash in road construction, along with extensive plantation drives along highways to reduce carbon emissions. “We are committed to eco-friendly infrastructure that benefits both the economy and the environment,” he added.
Despite the optimistic outlook, some challenges remain, including land acquisition hurdles, funding constraints, and maintenance gaps. To address these, the government has boosted infrastructure spending and encouraged private sector participation in long-term development strategies.
