+
Infrastructure Projects Plagued by Delays
ECONOMY & POLICY

Infrastructure Projects Plagued by Delays

Infrastructure development plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and societal progress. However, a recent report highlights a concerning trend of cost overruns and delays in over 1800 infrastructure projects across various sectors in India. According to the report, a staggering 449 projects have experienced cost overruns amounting to over Rs 5.01 lakh crore, significantly impacting their timely completion and overall efficacy.

These delays and cost escalations can be attributed to a myriad of factors, including inadequate planning, bureaucratic red tape, land acquisition issues, regulatory hurdles, and unforeseen challenges during project execution. Such impediments not only lead to financial losses but also erode public trust and confidence in the government's ability to deliver essential infrastructure.

Key sectors affected by these delays include transportation, energy, urban development, and water resources management. Projects such as highways, railways, power plants, metro systems, and irrigation facilities are among those experiencing significant setbacks, further exacerbating the nation's infrastructural deficiencies.

The consequences of these delays extend beyond budgetary concerns. They hamper job creation, hinder regional connectivity, impede access to essential services, and stifle economic productivity. Moreover, the prolonged duration of these projects adds to their environmental footprint and exacerbates disruptions to local communities.

Efforts to address these challenges require a multi-pronged approach, including streamlined approval processes, enhanced project management capabilities, improved coordination among stakeholders, and greater transparency in decision-making. Additionally, leveraging technology and innovation can mitigate risks and enhance efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.

Key stakeholders, including government authorities, project developers, financial institutions, and civil society, must collaborate closely to identify solutions and expedite the implementation of critical infrastructure projects. Timely completion of these initiatives is imperative to realise their intended socio-economic benefits and foster sustainable development across the nation.

In conclusion, while infrastructure development remains a priority for India's growth trajectory, persistent delays and cost overruns underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms and concerted efforts to overcome existing challenges. Addressing these issues is essential to unlock the full potential of infrastructure as a catalyst for inclusive growth and prosperity.

Your next big infra connection is waiting at RAHSTA 2025 – Asia’s Biggest Roads & Highways Expo, Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. Don’t miss out!

Infrastructure development plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and societal progress. However, a recent report highlights a concerning trend of cost overruns and delays in over 1800 infrastructure projects across various sectors in India. According to the report, a staggering 449 projects have experienced cost overruns amounting to over Rs 5.01 lakh crore, significantly impacting their timely completion and overall efficacy. These delays and cost escalations can be attributed to a myriad of factors, including inadequate planning, bureaucratic red tape, land acquisition issues, regulatory hurdles, and unforeseen challenges during project execution. Such impediments not only lead to financial losses but also erode public trust and confidence in the government's ability to deliver essential infrastructure. Key sectors affected by these delays include transportation, energy, urban development, and water resources management. Projects such as highways, railways, power plants, metro systems, and irrigation facilities are among those experiencing significant setbacks, further exacerbating the nation's infrastructural deficiencies. The consequences of these delays extend beyond budgetary concerns. They hamper job creation, hinder regional connectivity, impede access to essential services, and stifle economic productivity. Moreover, the prolonged duration of these projects adds to their environmental footprint and exacerbates disruptions to local communities. Efforts to address these challenges require a multi-pronged approach, including streamlined approval processes, enhanced project management capabilities, improved coordination among stakeholders, and greater transparency in decision-making. Additionally, leveraging technology and innovation can mitigate risks and enhance efficiency throughout the project lifecycle. Key stakeholders, including government authorities, project developers, financial institutions, and civil society, must collaborate closely to identify solutions and expedite the implementation of critical infrastructure projects. Timely completion of these initiatives is imperative to realise their intended socio-economic benefits and foster sustainable development across the nation. In conclusion, while infrastructure development remains a priority for India's growth trajectory, persistent delays and cost overruns underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms and concerted efforts to overcome existing challenges. Addressing these issues is essential to unlock the full potential of infrastructure as a catalyst for inclusive growth and prosperity.

Next Story
Real Estate

Mumbai Records 11,230 Property Deals in August 2025

Mumbai’s property market remained resilient in August 2025, with 11,230 property registrations recorded under the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) jurisdiction, according to data released by Knight Frank India. While this marks a 3 per cent year-on-year (YoY) decline compared to 11,631 registrations in August 2024, activity stayed robust despite the marginal dip.On a month-on-month (MoM) basis, registrations fell 11 per cent from 12,579 deals in July 2025, indicating seasonal moderation. However, the city’s stamp duty collections still reached Rs 10 billion, reflecting a 6 per cent..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

68 Jammu-Katra Trains Cancelled Amid Rain Damage

Jammu and Katra railway services remain severely affected as Northern Railway announced the cancellation of 68 trains—both incoming and outgoing—until 30 September, due to extensive track damage caused by heavy rains and flash floods. Meanwhile, 24 trains are scheduled to resume operations gradually.The Jammu railway division has experienced a complete halt in services for the past eight days, following track misalignment and breaches at several points along the Pathankot–Jammu section. Torrential rainfall since 26 August led to widespread flooding and damage, stranding hundreds of passe..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Bangalore Metro MD Reviews Reach 6 and Phase 2A Progress

Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) Managing Director, Dr J Ravishankar, IAS, conducted inspections of key metro corridors on 29 and 30 August, reviewing the progress of Reach 6 (Pink Line) and Phase 2A (Blue Line).On 30 August, the inspection covered Reach 6, a 21.39-km corridor stretching from Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara, with 18 stations. This stretch is part of Phase 2 of the Bangalore Metro project. Dr Ravishankar assessed the status of civil works, finishing, track laying, and system integration between Kalena Agrahara and MG Road.Earlier, on 29 August, the MD inspected Phas..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?