India’s infrastructure development has been a critical aspect of its journey towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, and the ambitious plan to build 74 new tunnels, spanning 273 kilometers at a projected cost of Rs 1 lakh crore, represents a vital step forward.
The initiative, announced by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, during FICCI’s Tunnelling India conference, signals the government’s commitment to improving connectivity and ensuring the safety of citizens while addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters like landslides, floods, and heavy rainfall.
As of today, 35 tunnels, covering 49 kilometers and built at a cost of Rs 15,000 crore, have already been completed. These tunnels are part of a broader strategy to create safer, faster, and more reliable transport routes, especially in regions prone to geological challenges.
The new plan to extend tunnel construction by an additional 273 kilometers reflects the government’s vision of creating resilient infrastructure that can withstand environmental and climatic challenges while fostering economic growth.
India’s diverse terrain, especially in the Himalayan region, the Western Ghats, and other hilly areas, makes tunnel infrastructure essential. Landslides, frequent flooding, and heavy rainfall often disrupt road connectivity, leading to delays in transportation, loss of lives, and damage to property. Tunnels provide a more permanent and cost-effective solution to these problems by offering safe passage through challenging landscapes.
Moreover, tunnel construction enhances all-weather road connectivity, which is crucial not only for the movement of goods and people but also for national security, especially in border areas. Improved road infrastructure through tunnels also fosters tourism, as many of India’s most scenic destinations lie in mountainous regions, which become difficult to access during certain seasons.
The investment of Rs 1 lakh crore in building 74 tunnels is a testament to the government’s focus on infrastructure as a key driver of economic growth. As Minister Gadkari emphasized, infrastructure development is critical to India’s goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy. Improved connectivity reduces travel time, cuts transportation costs, and stimulates regional economies by integrating remote areas into the national economy.
Tunnels, being long-term infrastructure assets, offer significant returns on investment by facilitating smoother and safer transport routes. This, in turn, boosts industries such as logistics, tourism, and trade, making the economy more efficient. Additionally, the construction of tunnels itself generates employment, creates demand for raw materials, and spurs technological advancements, all of which contribute to economic growth.
The government’s plan to build new tunnels marks a significant milestone in infrastructure development. As India continues to grow, investments in such forward-looking infrastructure projects will play a crucial role in ensuring that the nation’s progress is both inclusive and sustainable. |
