Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari reviewed the quality and maintenance progress of National Highway projects covering 4,335 km in Punjab and 3,332 km in Delhi and Haryana, drawing on inputs from media and social platforms. The review was conducted in New Delhi with Ministers of State Ajay Tamta and Harsh Malhotra, senior officials from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the National Highways Authority of India and project contractors in attendance. The meeting focused on assessing current status and identifying measures to expedite works.\n\nGadkari emphasised the need to accelerate on ground execution and directed officials and contractors to strengthen coordination and adhere strictly to project timelines. He underlined continuous monitoring of project quality and urged adoption of modern construction technologies and best engineering practices to enhance asset durability and long term performance of National Highways. The minister also called for greater accountability in maintenance operations to ensure that standards are met consistently.\n\nThe review highlighted priorities to improve riding quality and ensure seamless connectivity across key corridors in Punjab, Delhi and Haryana to provide safer and more efficient travel for commuters. Officials were instructed to prioritise high standards in construction and maintenance and to conduct regular inspections to identify and rectify deficiencies promptly. Emphasis was placed on measures that deliver smoother journeys and long lasting highway assets.\n\nThe minister directed agencies to undertake advance monsoon preparedness across all project stretches and to focus on effective drainage management and slope protection measures. He urged the establishment of swift response mechanisms to minimise disruptions from waterlogging, erosion and other weather related challenges and to ensure uninterrupted traffic movement. Concerned agencies were asked to remain vigilant and to take proactive steps to safeguard commuter safety during the monsoon season.