Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has called for greater attention to planning, quality and safety in India’s national highway development.
Speaking at a two-day Chintan Shivir in Gujarat, Gadkari stressed that highway projects need stronger preparation at the Detailed Project Report (DPR) stage. He highlighted the importance of accurate surveys, proper road alignment planning, land acquisition, utility shifting and timely statutory approvals.
According to Gadkari, addressing these issues at the beginning of a project can help prevent delays, reduce cost escalation and improve overall execution efficiency.
The minister also emphasised the need for national highways to meet higher standards of quality, safety and speed. As India continues to expand its road infrastructure, effective planning will be critical to ensuring that projects are delivered efficiently while maintaining safety for commuters.
The focus on better DPR preparation also reflects the importance of identifying potential challenges before construction begins. Delays related to land, utilities and approvals can significantly affect project timelines and costs if they are not addressed early.
Gadkari’s message underlines a broader approach to highway development—building infrastructure that is not only faster to deliver, but also safer, more efficient and aligned with world-class standards.
