National highway network grew by 1.6 times since 2014 under NDA government, claims minister

The total length of four-lane or wider NHS had a 2.5-fold increase, according to Pankaj Chaudhary, Minister of State for Finance

Highway

Since 2014, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power, there has been a significant focus on infrastructural development to improve the quality of life for citizens. This push has also provided a substantial boost to the economy. Over the last four years, government capital allocation for infrastructure has more than doubled, rising from ₹5 lakh crore in 2021 to ₹11.11 lakh crore, according to Pankaj Chaudhary, Minister of State for Finance.

The minister hinted that this expenditure could increase further as the Union Budget is set to be presented on February 1.

Highlighting the importance of infrastructure as the backbone of the country, Chaudhary emphasised the government’s efforts in expanding road networks, railways, and civil aviation—three key pillars of infrastructure. He revealed that the national highway network has grown by 1.6 times, from 91,287 km in 2014 to 1,46,195 km by November 2024.

“The length of high-speed corridors has increased significantly, from 93 km in 2014 to 2,474 km in 2024. Similarly, the total length of four-lane or wider national highways has surged from 18,300 km in 2014 to nearly 45,900 km in 2024, marking a 2.5-fold increase under the NDA government,” Chaudhary stated during a press conference.

Under Phase One of the Bharatmala Project to construct 34,800 km of national highways, the work on 26,425 km has been awarded, and 18,714 km has been completed.

The minister also discussed road safety, noting that the government has identified nearly 13,000 black spots on national highways to reduce accidents. These hazardous spots are planned to be rectified by 2029. With over 1.78 lakh people dying annually in road accidents—60% of whom are in the 18-34 age group—this initiative is critical.

Chaudhary acknowledged the challenge of utilising the remaining capital expenditure (capex) for the current fiscal year. As of the first seven months, only 42% of the allocated capex had been utilised.

In the aviation sector, the number of airports has more than doubled, increasing from 74 in 2014 to 158 in 2024. The number of aircraft used for domestic travel has risen to 824, and the number of travellers has grown to over 15 crore.

In Railways, Chaudhary highlighted remarkable progress, with 97% of the network electrified. He noted the addition of 68 Vande Bharat trains and the development of 1,337 stations, a project described as the largest of its kind in the world. Furthermore, 96% of the Dedicated Freight Corridor has been completed.

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