The Minister of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Nitin Gadkari, laid the foundation stone for National Highway (NH) Projects worth Rs 3,972 crore in Belgavi. These five projects of 238 km include Belagavi-Sankeshwar bypass, Sankeshwar bypass, Chorla-Jamboki-Belagavi, Vijayapura-Muragundi (NH-548B) and Siddapura-Vijayapura (NH-561A). CM of Karnataka, Basavaraj Bommai and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines of India, Pralhad Joshi, also attended the event. Gadkari said these NH projects would spur economic growth and interstate economic activities. The highway corridor project will be constructed in many places across the country, promoting economic growth and reducing fuel costs. He added that it would promote green vehicles to reduce pollution. Many regions of Karnataka would also be included under the Bharat Mala-2 project. The project between Bengaluru and Chennai will help cover the distance in just two hours. Another project connecting Surat to Chennai is issued setting up a logistic park. IT hub between Bengaluru and Tamil Nadu can be established along the highways to provide employment and increase the economy. The Minister will work in reducing the travel length between Pune to Bengaluru by 100 km. Water conservation along the NH under the Jalshankti programme is also part of the project. Bommai said that the development works are being undertaken by the central and the state government would lay a strong foundation for progress in the economic, social and education sectors in Karnataka. He added that the transportation system would be changed in Karnataka after completing the NH projects. Many development projects in the state have been implemented owing to the commitment and diligence of Minister Prahlad Joshi. The construction of NHs and upgradation work of state highways are been carried out under the leadership of Minister Gadkari. Image Source