NHAI directed to speed up project implementation, meet construction targets

01 Nov 2019 Editorial Team

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has been instructed by the Road, Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari to expedite the implementation of projects and accomplish its project construction targets. The minister asked officials to re-shift their focus from procedures to project delivery, and maintain targets of award and construction.

“As far as implementation of projects is concerned, the number of kilometres constructed in the past has witnessed an uptrend,” says RK Pandey, Member - Projects, NHAI. “In the past three years, NHAI constructed 2,628 km, 3,070 km and 3,380 km respectively. This year, we are targeting to complete about 4,500 km. So far, we have already completed about 1,600 km. Our experience indicates that completion of preconstruction activities is one of the reasons for delays. To further enhance the pace of implementation, we have decided not to award a work till completion of the pre-construction activity. Processes have been simplified and delegations given for approval of projects to ensure that targets fixed for awards and completion are adhered to.”

Insisting on maintaining a positive attitude, Gadkari reportedly also laid emphasis on the need to be on track with the 40 km per day construction target set by the agency. This is in tune with NHAI’s goal of constructing stretches of 4,200 km and awarding projects that roughly total to about 6,000 km in the current financial year. Additionally, NHAI has also been directed to incorporate innovative methods that cut down construction costs and help maintain the agency’s financial viability.

Infrastructure Transport

14 Oct 2025

Versova-Dahisar Coastal Road Project to Impact 1,200 Trees

The Versova-Dahisar Coastal Road Project in Mumbai will affect over 1,200 trees, according to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Of these, 990 trees will be replanted, while the remaining will be cut down due to construction requirements. The project, which forms a key extension of the on-going Mumbai Coastal Road corridor, aims to ease traffic congestion in the western suburbs and enhance north-south connectivity along the city’s coastline. The BMC has assured that replantation efforts will be carried out in designated areas to maintain ecological balance and offset the environm..

New Entry-Exit Planned on Vadodara–Mumbai Expressway near Ankleshwar

The Vadodara–Mumbai Expressway is set to get a new entry and exit point near Ankleshwar, aimed at improving regional connectivity and reducing travel time for commuters in south Gujarat. The new interchange, proposed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), will offer smoother access to nearby industrial and residential areas. The project forms part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana initiative, designed to strengthen India’s expressway network and boost economic corridors. Once operational, the new interchange is expected to enhance logistics efficiency by offering improved freight..

PMRDA Launches Rs 5,580 Mn Road Upgrade Plan to Ease Chakan Traffic

The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has launched Rs 5,580 million road infrastructure upgrade plan to address severe traffic congestion in the Chakan industrial region. The initiative aims to improve connectivity between Pune and major industrial hubs, including Talegaon, Moshi, and Alandi. Under the plan, PMRDA will widen existing roads, construct new link roads, and improve junctions across the Chakan–Talegaon and Moshi-Alandi corridors. These measures are expected to streamline the movement of goods and workers, benefiting the area are automotive and manufacturing ..