Union Road Transport and Highways minister Nitin Gadkari announced that the Centre has approved Rs 1,042.62 crore (10,426.2 million (mn)) for widening and strengthening six road projects in West Bengal that together span 194.10 km under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) Scheme. The investment is intended to upgrade carriageways, strengthen pavements and accommodate higher traffic loads along key corridors identified by state and central engineers. Gadkari indicated in a social media post that the projects will improve road connectivity, reduce travel time and enhance safety while strengthening access to markets, educational institutions and healthcare facilities. He said the works are expected to boost regional trade, support local economies and improve last-mile connectivity, creating better conditions for economic activity and tourism across the state. Officials said the funds will be deployed in phases with monitoring by central and state agencies to ensure timely completion. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has directed all government agencies and departments concerned to repair battered roads in the city and set a deadline of 10 October for completion of works ahead of the puja season. He held a review meeting at Nabanna with officials from the Kolkata Port Trust, Garden Reach Shipbuilders, the public works department and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and ordered a fast-track programme for stretches in port areas. The state aims to synchronise the repair schedule with civic events. Potholes and roadway deterioration remain a serious concern in many thoroughfares and prompted the state to sanction funds for repairs. The panchayat department has been tasked with repairing 3,200 roads in rural areas and the urban development and municipal affairs department instructed to address roads within their jurisdictions, measures that state planners say will reduce hazards and support smoother movement of goods and people. Officials added that coordinated maintenance will help reduce vehicle damage and transport delays while improving safety for commuters.