GatiShakti Initiative fast-tracking infra development

The PM GatiShakti initiative has been recognised as an effective mechanism for expediting infrastructure projects and fostering area-based socio-economic development, according to an official statement. Sumita Dawra, Special Secretary (Logistics) at the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), made this observation during a regional cooperation and integration conference organised by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Tbilisi, Georgia, from September 5-7.The conference aimed to explore the integration of an area-centric approach with economic corridor development (ECD) and strengthen regional cooperation. India, represented by the special secretary, highlighted its operationalised PM GatiShakti initiative for infrastructure development.PM GatiShakti NMP, a GIS data-based digital platform featuring over 1,400 data layers and more than 50 tools, offers a visual representation of trunk and utility infrastructure, land use, existing structures (e.g., bridges and railway crossings), soil quality, habitation patterns, tourism sites, forest-sensitive areas, and decision-making functionalities like site suitability.The statement noted that since the program's launch, 100 projects valued at USD 71.26 billion have been assessed during 54 meetings of the Network Planning Group—a critical institutional body responsible for implementing GatiShakti principles in infrastructure planning.Sumita Dawra cited examples such as the Indo-Nepal Haldia Access Controlled Corridor project, which enhances connectivity and trade between Nepal and eastern Indian states, and the Regional Waterways Grid (RWG) project, promoting multimodal connectivity to growth centres and border points. These examples showcased how PM GatiShakti contributes to improved connectivity with regional partners.