India is embarking on a transformative journey to revolutionize its road infrastructure with a monumental investment of ₹11 trillion (approximately USD 125 billion). This initiative aims to expand the nation’s high-speed road network nearly fivefold by 2033, significantly enhancing logistics efficiency and modernizing transportation infrastructure.
The government’s plan includes the addition of 17,000 km of access-controlled expressways, elevating the current network from 4,500 km to a robust 21,500 km. These expressways will support speeds up to 120 km/h, offering faster, safer and more efficient travel compared to traditional highways. Approximately 40% of this expansion is already under construction, with completion targeted for 2030. The remaining corridors are slated to commence by 2028 and conclude by 2033.
To attract private investment, the government is employing a hybrid financing model. High-return projects are being awarded under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, allowing private entities to recover investments through toll collections. Lower-return corridors will follow the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM), where the government provides 40% of the construction costs upfront, thereby reducing initial risks for private developers.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), leading this ambitious project, recorded a capital expenditure of ₹2.5 trillion in the fiscal year ending March 2025, marking a 21% increase from the previous year. For FY26, the government has allocated ₹2.9 trillion for road and highway projects, underscoring its commitment to infrastructure development.
This expansive road network is poised to bolster economic growth, enhance connectivity and position India as a formidable player in global logistics.
