India’s highway network has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, driving economic growth and improving connectivity across the nation. With ambitious government initiatives, large-scale investments, and advanced construction techniques, India now boasts one of the world’s fastest-growing highway infrastructures.
1. Surge in Highway Expansion
The past ten years have seen an unprecedented surge in the expansion of national highways. In 2014, India had approximately 91,287 km of national highways. By 2024, this figure has surpassed 1,44,000 km, reflecting a substantial increase. The average construction rate has also risen from around 12 km per day in 2014 to over 30 km per day in recent years.
2. Bharatmala Pariyojana: Revolutionizing Connectivity
The Bharatmala Pariyojana, launched in 2017, has been a game-changer in highway infrastructure. With an investment of over ₹5.35 lakh crore, the project aims to develop 34,800 km of national highways, enhancing connectivity to border areas, economic corridors, and major transport hubs. Several expressways and greenfield corridors are being developed to reduce travel time and logistics costs.
3. Expressways and Economic Corridors
India has witnessed the construction of several world-class expressways in the past decade, including:
- Delhi-Mumbai Expressway (1,386 km) – India’s longest expressway, reducing travel time between the two cities to 12 hours.
- Purvanchal Expressway (340 km) – Boosting connectivity in Uttar Pradesh.
- Bundelkhand Expressway (296 km) – Strengthening regional development.
Additionally, the development of economic corridors like the Delhi-Kolkata Corridor and Chennai-Bangalore Industrial Corridor has facilitated seamless trade and commerce.
4. Technology-Driven Highway Construction
The integration of advanced technology has played a crucial role in infrastructure development. Use of GPS-enabled monitoring, drone surveys, and precast technology has improved efficiency and reduced construction timelines. Additionally, India is increasingly adopting sustainable practices, such as using plastic waste in road construction and promoting electric vehicle-friendly highways.
5. Boost to Logistics and Trade
Improved highways have significantly enhanced India’s logistics performance. The development of multi-modal logistics parks along national highways is reducing freight costs, ensuring faster transportation, and strengthening India’s position as a global trade hub.
6. Future of Highway Infrastructure
The next phase of highway development focuses on sustainability and smart roads. Projects like the Green National Highways Corridor Project aim to incorporate eco-friendly practices, while upcoming expressways like the Amritsar-Jamnagar and Bangalore-Chennai Expressways will further enhance connectivity.
Conclusion
India’s highway infrastructure progress over the past decade is a testament to visionary planning and efficient execution. With continued investments and innovation, the country is set to achieve even greater milestones, reinforcing its position as a leader in global infrastructure development.