Indian highways target doubling average travel speed

22 Dec 2023 CW Team

To actualise this proposal, the initial phase of the comprehensive master plan for highway development is set to commence, initiating projects for bidding by 2028-29. Subsequent construction is slated for completion by 2031-32. Upon establishment of this expansive road network, it is anticipated that the average travel speed on national highways will nearly double, surging from the current 47 kmph to 85 kmph.

Nitin Gadkari, the Minister for Road Transport and Highways, has alluded to the possibility of raising speed limits on national highways to facilitate faster transit for commuters.

In contrast to other nations, where highway speeds exceed 100 kmph in the United States and around 90 kmph in China, the Indian government aims to elevate the average speed, targeting a reduction in logistics costs to 9-10% of the GDP. Currently, these costs constitute approximately 18% of the GDP.

To enhance accessibility and alleviate congestion in and around cities and urban areas, the ministry has identified specific high-speed corridors strategically positioned within a range of 100-150 km from any part of India.

The ministry's assessment indicates a projected need for approximately 50,000 km of high-speed corridors, with only 3,900 km currently operational. However, it is expected that this figure will increase to around 11,000 km by 2026-27. Recognising this significant gap, the ministry has identified new high-speed corridors spanning 36,500 km to address congestion. Over the next two decades, the primary focus will be on constructing four and six-lane highways.

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