The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), central agency which develops maintains and manages the national highways, is all set to score new highs despite the COVID 19 lockdown and other major roadblocks in this fiscal year. They are likely to exceed the 2020-21 target of awarding road projects covering 4,500 km, as it has already awarded 40 projects covering 1,330 km in the first half of the fiscal 2020-21, as per an official release from the government agency.
These 40 projects awarded by NHAI this year would entail a capital cost of Rs 47,289 crore. The length of the projects awarded in April-September is 60% higher than the 828 km ordered in the same period a year ago. Most of the land acquisitions, actioned utilities shifting and required clearances from various forest and environment authorities have already been obtained, says the NHAI press statement.
NHAI disbursed Rs 10,000 crores through online payments in March and ensured that no payments remain pending due to closure of office during the lockdown. In the April-June quarter, NHAI disbursed over Rs 15,000 crores to the vendors.
Such moderations will result in a spiraling effect not only on the growth of the road sector but will also play a critical role in nation building and advancing the growth of the Indian economy, say the industry experts.
Earlier this year, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had said that the government is taking steps to revamp the NHAI and plans more large-scale to boost road construction in the country.
