Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced a major boost in India’s tunnel infrastructure at the ‘World Tunnel Day 2024 Conference on Safe & Sustainable Tunneling.’ He revealed that 75 tunnel projects worth ₹49,000 crore are currently under construction across the country. These projects are part of the government’s vision to establish world-class infrastructure.
Completed Projects and Ongoing Developments
NHAI has already completed 35 tunnel projects covering 49 km, costing ₹20,000 crore. Meanwhile, 75 more projects, spanning 146 km and costing ₹49,000 crore, are underway. Additionally, the government plans to launch 78 new tunnel projects, covering 285 km with an investment of ₹1.10 lakh crore.
Landmark Tunnel Under Brahmaputra River
A key highlight of future plans is the proposed construction of a massive tunnel under the Brahmaputra River in Assam. Gadkari mentioned his recent discussions with the Chief Minister of Assam, underscoring the transformative potential of this project.
Tunneling Technology Beyond Roads
Gadkari stressed that tunneling technology plays a vital role across various sectors, including hydroelectric projects, metro systems, and railways. He emphasized the need for modern technology and skilled contractors to meet the growing demand for tunneling infrastructure.
Vision for World-Class Infrastructure
Gadkari reiterated the government’s commitment to making India the third-largest economy globally. He stated, “For this target, we need to have international-standard infrastructure.” These tunnel projects are a crucial step toward achieving that vision.
India’s ambitious tunnel initiatives showcase the government’s dedication to enhancing connectivity, sustainability, and economic growth through cutting-edge infrastructure projects.
