Centre fast-tracks road development for Simhastha 2028
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has directed that all proposed road projects in Madhya Pradesh, planned with a view to Simhastha 2028, be completed strictly within the stipulated timelines.
Emphasising the global scale of the Simhastha event, Gadkari said that strong, safe, and seamless road connectivity is essential to ensure smooth movement and convenience for devotees and visitors.
The Union Minister made these remarks during a high-level review meeting held in New Delhi to accelerate the expansion, strengthening, and quality execution of national highway projects in Madhya Pradesh. The meeting was attended by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav, Madhya Pradesh Assembly Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar, Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, and senior state officials.
Gadkari reviewed key components of national highway projects, including beautification works, bridge and culvert construction, and black spot rectification. He underlined that roads are not merely transport corridors but a foundation for regional development and public convenience. He directed officials to identify accident-prone locations and carry out corrective measures on priority to enhance road safety.
Stressing that quality must remain paramount, Gadkari instructed that road construction should strictly adhere to prescribed technical standards. He also emphasised minimising tree felling and promoting tree transplantation using modern techniques, ensuring that infrastructure development goes hand in hand with environmental conservation. Interacting directly with contractors, he warned that compromise on quality would not be tolerated.
The Union Minister further directed that the condition of toll roads must remain exemplary. He cautioned that strict action would be taken against toll operators if road quality standards are found lacking. Gadkari also called for expediting pending projects and reiterated that timely completion must be treated as the highest priority.
Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav said the review meeting would further strengthen institutional coordination between the Centre and the state, ensuring both speed and quality in project execution. He noted that key challenges such as land acquisition, forest clearances, construction quality, and timelines were addressed through coordinated decision-making. A modern and safe road network, he said, is critical for economic growth, industrial development, tourism, investment, and job creation in Madhya Pradesh.
Public Works Minister Rakesh Singh said road infrastructure development is progressing rapidly under the Chief Minister’s leadership and thanked the Union Government for its continued support. Chief Secretary Anurag Jain informed that monthly reviews are being conducted to ensure all Simhastha-related road projects are completed by December 2027.
The meeting reinforced the shared commitment of the Centre and Madhya Pradesh Government to deliver world-class, safe, and sustainable road infrastructure for citizens and future mega events like Simhastha 2028.
