Latest news with #BharatmalaPariyojana


Time of India
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Move over Bharatmala, here comes Viksit Bharat Gati Shakti Maha marg, ETInfra
Advt By & , ETInfra After the Bharatmala Pariyojana road and highway development programme, the next phase of the country's road development will be centered around high-speed corridors and expressways, which will be christened ' Viksit Bharat Gati Shakti Mahamarg ' in keeping with the 'viksit' flavour of all government flagship schemes as the country marches towards a developed nation.'We undertook our first push towards highway development with the Golden Quadrilateral, the vision that was given out in the late 1990s and the second spurt has happened in the post 2014 era,' said V. Umashankar, Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways , in his address at ET Infra Roads and Highways Secretary highlighted that the country will now transition from highway development to more of high-speed corridors, expressway development with an aim to bring down the logistics cost.'We are looking at the same vision of a Golden Quadrilateral being translated into a high-speed corridor and the expressway corridor of Golden Quadrilateral. So, we are calling it the Viksit Bharat Gati Shakti Mahamarg. We still haven't got at the stage of approval for it, but our planning has been centered around that,' he added, outlining that the highway construction requirement is expected to reach saturation levels in 15-20 an interview to ET Infra earlier, Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra said the next phase of road development by the central government will be focused on developing 40,000 km of high-speed corridors which will enable vehicle speed of up to 120 km/hr.'The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' vision for 2047 envisages interstate connectivity and economic corridors which connect states and industrial corridors. Highway speed along with economic growth is the vision of the government,' Malhotra had Golden Quadrilateral project focused on developing a network of national highways connecting Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai, while the ongoing Bharatmala programme is aimed at providing National Highways linkage to 550 districts.


News18
5 days ago
- News18
Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Likely To Boost Real Estate Demand In Rishikesh, Haridwar, Other Adjoining Areas
The Delhi-Dehradun expressway has triggered real estate growth, far beyond its immediate alignment. The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is redefining regional connectivity and urban expansion across North India. Stretching 210 km and backed by a Rs 13,000-crore outlay under the Bharatmala Pariyojana, the expressway promises to slash commute times from 6.5 hours to just 2.5 hours. But, the numbers only tell part of the story. By linking urban centres like Ghaziabad, Muzaffarnagar, and Saharanpur with pilgrimage and tourist spots such as Haridwar and Dehradun, the corridor stitches together economies and aspirations. Its design, marked by twin tunnels and an elevated stretch through Rajaji National Park, signals a rare blend of progress and preservation. The Delhi–Dehradun Expressway unfolds in four meticulously planned phases, each engineered to unlock regional potential while easing urban choke points. Phase 1, a largely elevated 32-km stretch from Delhi to Baghpat, has already transformed a tedious commute into a swift 25-minute ride. The expressway would begin at Akshardham Temple in Pandav Nagar (Delhi) and terminate at the Eastern Peripheral Expressway in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh. Phase 2's 118-km greenfield expansion to Saharanpur integrates over 60 underpasses, reflecting an intent to merge speed with seamless local access. This will extend from the Baghpat (UP) EPE interchange to the Saharanpur (UP) Bypass. To provide easy access to nearby communities, the second phase will add two more lanes and four more interchanges. Phase 3 charts a 40-km course from the Saharanpur Bypass in Uttar Pradesh to Ganeshpur in Uttarakhand, near Sunderpur and Biharigarh. This six-lane stretch marks a crucial transition point, bridging the densely populated plains with the forested terrain of the Himalayan foothills. It is designed for opening up quieter geographies to new residential, logistic, and tourism-led possibilities. Phase 4 is where engineering meets ecological sensitivity. Stretching 19.5 km from Ganeshpur to Dehradun, this final leg carves through the Shivalik Hills and Rajaji Tiger Reserve via the Daat Kali Devi Tunnel. Here, the expressway embraces a dual responsibility, delivering connectivity while preserving one of the region's most vital biodiversity zones. The Metro Blueprint Beyond highway connectivity, Dehradun's future is being shaped by multi-modal transport integration. The upcoming Uttarakhand Metro, which was proposed in 2020 and slated for operation by 2026, is a critical urban mobility link that will complement the expressway's long-haul connectivity. This Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) spans two key corridors: Phase 1: Haridwar-Rishikesh (32 km), and Phase 2: Nepali Farm-Dehradun (41 km). Together, these lines aim to reduce road congestion, promote eco-tourism, and provide a seamless travel experience between religious, tourist, and urban nodes. For real estate, this means enhanced last-mile access, rising footfalls, and renewed developer confidence in transit-linked micro-markets. Infrastructure Development as the Catalyst Apart from the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway connectivity, the long-delayed expansion of Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun has also gathered pace, with 87 hectares of land acquired for its upgrade. Once completed, the airport will support international flights and higher-capacity aircraft, positioning it as a strategic gateway not just to Dehradun, but also to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and the wider Char Dham circuit. Parallelly, the ambitious Char Dham Highway and Railway Projects, covering 889 km across spiritual hubs like Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, are quietly redrawing access to some of India's most revered yet remote landscapes, lending these geographies new layers of economic and real estate value. Impact On Real Estate The expressway has triggered real estate growth, far beyond its immediate alignment. In North-East Delhi and Ghaziabad, long plagued by bottlenecks, decongestion has improved liveability, and predictably, land values have soared. In Dehradun, the momentum is unmistakable. As per the Magic Bricks report, in the northern part of India, Tier-2 cities such as Dehradun present considerable investment opportunities due to their comparatively lower real estate prices. While Delhi's average price stands at Rs 18,618 per square foot, Dehradun offers more affordable options at Rs 5,653. Besides, the city sees a rise in demand for second homes, too. These residential properties are a strategic asset in a portfolio seeking growth, balance, and sustainability. Data from Magicbricks shows that Dehradun reported a 43% increase in demand for second homes, followed by Shimla with 34%, Karnal with 28%, and Rishikesh with 26%. The rising interest indicates a growing trend toward holiday homes and lifestyle investments in these scenic locations. Manit Sethi, director of Excentia Infra, said, 'Dehradun is no longer just a scenic escape; it has become a strategic real estate magnet. With the expressway redefining access, we're witnessing a decisive shift in buyer mindset. Professionals, retirees, and investors are now viewing Dehradun not only for its natural beauty but for its long-term potential. At Excentia, we anticipated this trend early and aimed at premium buyers. The real story is unfolding around micro-markets along the expressway, which we believe will be the next epicentres of growth in this evolving hill economy." Harvinder Singh Sikka, director at Sikka Group, said, 'The Delhi–Dehradun corridor aligns seamlessly with our long-term strategy of investing in high-potential Tier-2 markets. Infrastructure is the true catalyst here, be it the expressway, the upcoming Uttarakhand Metro, or the expansion of Jolly Grant Airport. Together, they are reducing travel time, improving logistics, and driving real estate activity at an unprecedented pace. We recognised this shift early, but as the region opens up to economic and residential growth, we look forward to catering to the region. We believe Dehradun's ecological fabric is fragile, and this boom must be anchored in sustainable design, balanced zoning, and a strong real estate framework." Sakshee Katiyal, chairperson of Home and Soul, said, 'We see this project transforming Dehradun into an extended suburb of the capital. Besides, the expressway will boost the connectivity and real estate appreciation and demand in other adjoining areas like Rishikesh and Haridwar. As developers, our interest lies in wellness-focused living spaces that cater to remote workers, retirees, and second-home seekers. What was once a weekend getaway may now be a full-time residential opportunity." About the Author Mohammad Haris Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris More Stay updated with all the latest business news, including market trends, stock updates, tax, IPO, banking finance, real estate, savings and investments. Get in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and real-time updates—only on News18. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : real estate view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 18, 2025, 18:04 IST News business » real-estate Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Likely To Boost Real Estate Demand In Rishikesh, Haridwar, Other Adjoining Areas Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.


Time of India
15-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
National highways proposed in Kerala now in limbo
Thiruvananthapuram: Two of Kerala's most significant road development plans, including the proposed Kozhikode-Mysore greenfield corridor and the declaration of 12 key road stretches as national highways (NHs), have hit a wall with Centre either stalling or quietly stepping back from earlier commitments. In a fresh representation to Union ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH), state urged urgent revival of both. Govt asked MPs from the state to take up the matter in Parliament. The Kozhikode-Mysore economic corridor, envisioned as a seamless 24-hour greenfield highway bypassing ecologically sensitive areas, was initially backed by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which engaged with forest department to finalise an alignment that would skirt major wildlife sanctuaries. However, the state flagged that NHAI was no longer pursuing the project actively—a development it described as "a matter of serious concern. " The proposed corridor was designed to offer uninterrupted interstate connectivity between Bengaluru and north Kerala, particularly vital in light of the night traffic ban on NH-766 and other roads passing through Bandipur and Wayanad forests. Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan personally raised the issue with Union road transport minister Nitin Gadkari during a meeting on Dec 6, 2024 but no follow-up commitments materialised. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo Equally troubling is Centre's failure to act on its earlier in-principle approval to declare 12 important road stretches in Kerala, totalling 484.6km, as NHs. While the directive to foreclose the preparation of detailed project reports (DPRs) came in July 2020, state is now pushing for these road stretches to be revived under the NH network, given that formal notification never followed despite the initial green light. The state's latest appeal underscores that these roads are strategically critical and their upgradation is even more urgent, considering Kerala's overburdened road infrastructure. State currently has just about 580km of NHs under PWD's purview. With one of the highest vehicle and population densities in the country, capacity expansion through centrally funded corridors is being projected as a non-negotiable priority. As these proposals under Bharatmala Pariyojana are being discontinued, state has submitted a fresh set of 17 road stretches covering 1,054km for inclusion in Vision 2047 Master Plan, which MoRTH is currently finalising. These corridors have been identified after a new assessment and reflect the evolving transport and logistics needs of the region, Kerala argues. Adding to its case, govt highlighted that no new major project has been sanctioned for Kerala through PWD's NH wing in the last four years. It urged Centre to include 14 proposed projects amounting to Rs 6,700 crore in MoRTH's current year annual plan, warning that worsening congestion and infrastructure fatigue would continue unless the pipeline was urgently revived. As Centre maintains silence despite multiple submissions, state has now shifted gears politically, urging its MPs to escalate the issue in Parliament in a coordinated push. While the projects themselves may have seen bureaucratic limbo for years, state's current campaign signals that the fight for them is anything but over.


Time of India
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway toll suspended: What's behind NHAI's sudden decision from today?
Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has suspended toll collection on a 28.71 km stretch of the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway starting July 15. The decision is linked to urgent repair work on a damaged section of NH-754K, under Package-4 of the Sanchore-Santalpur section. According to NHAI, the toll suspension aims to prioritise commuter safety and convenience. Repairs are ongoing, and toll services will resume only after the work is completed. The suspension began at 8:00 AM today. The affected stretch is part of the ambitious Bharatmala Pariyojana, a flagship national highway development program. This corridor is vital for interstate connectivity between Rajasthan and Gujarat and plays a key role in freight movement. CM orders immediate monsoon damage repairs The Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway is essential for improving access to major ports such as Jamnagar, Kandla, and Mundra. The temporary toll halt may affect logistics and transport routes, though it helps in maintaining infrastructure safety. What travelers and freight operators need to know? Toll collection on the 28.71 km stretch of the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway's Package-4 section is suspended from July 15, 2025, 8:00 AM onwards. Suspension will continue until the completion of urgent repair and rectification work. The move seeks to improve road safety and reduce potential disruptions caused by defects. The expressway facilitates faster, safer freight movement connecting northern states to western ports. Authorities urge commuters to stay updated with traffic advisories and alternative route information during repair operations. This temporary toll suspension on the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway shows NHAI's commitment to maintaining high infrastructure standards and safeguarding public convenience. FAQs 1. Why is the toll suspended on the Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway? Answer: The toll is suspended due to essential repair work on a 28.71 km section of NH-754K to ensure public safety. 2. When did the Amritsar-Jamnagar toll suspension begin? Answer: NHAI implemented the toll halt on July 15 at 8:00 AM, and it will continue until repair work is finished. 3. Which section of the Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway is affected? Answer: The suspended toll applies to Package-4 of the Sanchore-Santalpur section, part of the Amritsar-Jamnagar corridor. 4. Will freight and logistics services be delayed? Answer: There may be minor disruptions in freight movement, as the expressway is a key trade route to Gujarat's ports. 5. Is this part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana project? Answer: Yes, this stretch is a critical part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana, aiming to boost connectivity across India. For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here.


Economic Times
15-07-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Toll collection suspended on 28 km stretch of Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway from today
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced the temporary suspension of toll collection on a 28.71 km stretch of the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway (NH-754K), owing to essential repair work currently underway. This stretch falls under Package-4 of the Sanchore-Santalpur section of the expressway, a key infrastructure link being developed under the ambitious Bharatmala Pariyojana. ADVERTISEMENT According to the official statement, the toll suspension will be effective from 8:00 AM on July 15 and will remain in place until the completion of the ongoing rectification work. This decision has been taken in the larger public interest to ensure commuter safety and convenience during the repair phase. The 125 km corridor from Sanchore in Rajasthan to Santalpur in Gujarat's Patan district forms a vital segment of the economic corridor that aims to significantly improve inter-state connectivity across India's northern and eastern regions. The Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway also plays a strategic role in enhancing access to major ports such as Jamnagar, Kandla, and Mundra, thereby strengthening India's international trade logistics and reducing travel time for freight movement across the country. Earlier on July 7, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has directed that all damage to highways, as well as rural and urban roads, caused by heavy monsoon rains, be repaired on a priority basis and restored to their original condition without delay, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said in a press release. In a high-level meeting, the Chief Minister emphasised that road networks, crucial for development and daily public transportation, must not remain damaged due to heavy rainfall, and that immediate repairs should be undertaken to ensure their continued operation. He held a meeting in Gandhinagar with senior officials from the relevant departments to review the current status of national highways, state highways, and roads under the purview of panchayats in rural areas, towns, and metropolitan cities. ADVERTISEMENT In the meeting, CM Bhupendra Patel stated that road and bridge repairs, including patchwork, should not be delayed awaiting the end of rainfall. He emphasised that not a single day with no or minimal rainfall should go to waste, and that repair work must continue even on holidays in the interest of the public. He further stated that in cases where damage occurs or repairs are required within the Defect Liability Period, the responsibility must be fixed on the contractor, and appropriate action should be taken. He also stressed the importance of ensuring the quality of all repair and construction works. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)