DIMAPUR — Nagaland
currently has 34 National Highway projects under construction spanning 713
kilometres at an estimated cost of INR 9,502 crore.
During the financial year 2024-25, one project covering 23
kilometres, with a cost of INR 365 crore, was successfully completed. However,
there are no new projects in Nagaland ‘approved but yet to be commenced,’
according to Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari.
In a statement laid before the Lok Sabha on December 12,
Gadkari stated that Nagaland received an allocation of INR 734 crore for the
development and maintenance of national highways during 2024-25.
“Funds are not allocated project-wise but state-wise to meet
the expenses for under-construction works, completed works, and approved but
yet to commence NH projects,” the statement read.
Gadkari said that the ministry aims to complete all
under-construction projects in Nagaland, as well as other northeastern states,
by 2027. This target is dependent upon the availability of encumbrance-free
land, forest clearance, environmental clearance, utility shifting, working
season, and the contractor’s financial position, among other factors.
In order to address challenges and prevent delays in
executing NH projects in the north-eastern region, the ministry has implemented
measures such as streamlining land acquisition and revamping dispute resolution
mechanisms.
Other measures include awarding projects only after adequate
preparatory work, including clearances and alignment finalisation.
The ministry is also establishing close coordination with
state governments and other ministries or departments to tackle issues related
to clearances, along with regular reviews at various levels to maintain
momentum in project execution.
Along with Nagaland, the northeastern region is witnessing a
combined investment of INR 34,783 crore for 118 under-construction projects.
Manipur leads in infrastructure development, with 35 ongoing
projects covering 753 km at a cost of INR 10,355 crore.
Arunachal Pradesh is managing 33 projects under
construction, spanning 604 km at a cost of INR 7,828 crore.
