India Constructs Over 3,600 km of High-Speed Corridors in Five Years

Maharashtra Leads as India Boosts Road Infrastructure

India is steadily advancing its national highway infrastructure. Over the past five financial years (FY20–FY24), the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has built more than 3,660 km of high-speed corridors. This update was shared by Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari in the Rajya Sabha on April 2.

Key Highlights of India’s Road Development Progress

• 3,660 km of high-speed corridors constructed between FY20 and FY24
• Average pace of highway construction rose to 31 km per day in this period
• Maharashtra topped the list with over 9,300 km of NHs built
• Over 22,000 km of four-lane and higher configuration highways constructed
• Strong policy measures adopted to support large-scale infrastructure growth

State-Wise Progress in National Highway Construction

During FY20 to FY24, Maharashtra emerged as the frontrunner by building more than 9,300 km of national highways. Other top contributors include:

• Rajasthan – 4,148 km
• Uttar Pradesh – 4,016 km
• Madhya Pradesh – 3,921 km
• Andhra Pradesh – 2,686 km
• Tamil Nadu – 2,626 km

When it comes to expanding road capacity (excluding high-speed corridors), over 22,000 km of four-lane or higher configuration highways were developed. Maharashtra again led the way with 3,140 km, followed by:

• Uttar Pradesh – 2,200 km
• Madhya Pradesh – 1,222 km
• Odisha – 1,122 km
• Karnataka – 1,088 km
• Tamil Nadu – 1,030 km

Gadkari Highlights Accelerated Construction Pace

In a written response, Minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted that the average construction pace of national highways increased significantly—from 22 km per day (2014–2019) to 31 km per day (2019–2024). This growth reflects a major shift in execution speed and planning efficiency.

Government Initiatives Driving Road Development

To ensure timely and efficient road development, the government has implemented multiple strategic initiatives:

1. Corridor-Based Planning and Network Expansion

The ministry is expanding the National Highway network and has identified key economic corridors for rapid development.

2. Integrated Planning with PM GatiShakti

By leveraging the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, the government is encouraging integrated and data-driven infrastructure planning.

3. Increased Budget Allocation and Private Investment

The government has increased highway sector funding and is utilizing Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvIT) for innovative financing.

4. Faster Project Implementation

A pre-approved shelf of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) is being prepared in advance for quicker rollout.

5. Tech-Enabled Approvals and Land Acquisition

Systems like the Bhoomi Rashi portal for land acquisition and the PARIVESH portal for environmental and forest clearances are streamlining permissions.

6. Strengthening the Execution Ecosystem

The ministry is working to boost the domestic contractor base, overhaul dispute resolution frameworks, and deploy digital monitoring tools like drones, GIS systems, mobile apps, and real-time dashboards.

7. Adoption of New Technologies

Innovations in construction materials, road designs, and digital management systems are being actively encouraged to enhance long-term infrastructure sustainability.

The Road Ahead: A Future-Focused Approach

India’s recent success in expanding its national highway and high-speed corridor infrastructure is part of a broader vision to improve connectivity, reduce travel time, and promote economic development. With freight traffic and vehicle numbers growing rapidly, these investments are expected to offer long-term returns.

As Gadkari emphasized, this infrastructure boom is not just about quantity but also about quality, speed, and sustainability. With continued focus on modern technology and private participation, India is paving the way for a well-connected future.

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