Centre Seeks Faster Execution, Stronger Quality Monitoring of Highway Projects
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Monday reviewed the quality and maintenance status of National Highway projects covering 12,260 kilometres in Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal.
The review covered 8,512 km of National Highways in Andhra Pradesh and 3,748 km in West Bengal. The assessment was based on feedback received through media reports and social media platforms.
Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra, senior officials from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), and project contractors attended the meeting in New Delhi.
During the review, Gadkari stressed the need to accelerate project execution, strengthen quality monitoring mechanisms and adopt modern construction practices to improve highway durability and riding quality. He also emphasised the use of advanced technologies to develop sustainable and efficient road infrastructure that supports connectivity, economic growth and commuter convenience.
The minister directed officials to ensure adequate monsoon preparedness measures, including effective drainage systems, slope protection works and quick-response mechanisms to minimise disruptions and enhance road safety during the rainy season.
The meeting also reviewed several aspects related to highway quality and maintenance, including retaining earth walls, safety audits, road signage, plantation and landscaping, precast construction, black spot rectification, expansion joints, project termini and compliance with material standards.
Gadkari directed all stakeholders to implement corrective measures in a time-bound manner and ensure adherence to prescribed quality standards across highway projects.
