Latest news with #BharatmalaPariyojana
Time of India
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Mobility apartheid
The new expressway model turns a public road into a revenue corridor, creating a two-tier system that excludes the majority By: Sridhar Radhakrishnan NH-66, when first envisioned, promised a modern, six-lane road to ease traffic and connect Kerala's dense population. It was a dream sold to us all. But as the highway nears completion, it has become clear: This is not a road for everyone. For most, the dream has turned into a nightmare. The emerging highway favours speed and privilege over the real mobility needs of ordinary citizens. What was meant to connect is now dividing—creating a corridor of exclusion under the guise of development. The project is turning into a textbook example of 'mobility apartheid'. Expanded under Bharatmala Pariyojana , this lifeline is now a six-lane, access-controlled motorway, mostly elevated, that bypasses cities, towns and villages. It excludes precisely those who depended on the original two-lane road—locals, workers, students and families. It is no longer a public road, but a fast track reserved for the few. Worse, the road is rising on land it shouldn't—over wetlands, paddy fields and natural floodplains. It has been built in defiance of Kerala's natural terrain and the flow of water. Embankments built throughout the highway have cut across the east-west flow, against all warnings and local public protests. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Kerala's roads are dominated by two-wheelers and autorickshaws. Out of 1 crore vehicles, nearly 72 lakh are two- and three-wheelers—lifelines for students, farmers, vendors and families. Yet NH-66 excludes them. While cars and lorries glide along the expressway, others are pushed onto broken, waterlogged service roads. Even tractors and trailers must crawl through these 'cattle class' lanes. Often, these service roads and underpasses were built as an afterthought, with minimal consideration to water drainage or commuter safety. In many stretches, local people report that service roads flood faster than before and some have become practically unusable during heavy rains. This did not happen by mistake or oversight. It happened by design. Under the hybrid annuity model, private contractors build the highway with 40% central funding upfront and NHAI is committed to paying them the full cost through the collection of tolls. This model, pushed by the Centre, incentivises high-speed traffic and revenue. The result: A road built for trucks and SUVs, while the people living along it, the original beneficiaries, get fewer access points, poorer roads and unaffordable tolls. A full journey on NH-66 could now cost over Rs 1,650—unaffordable for most of the population. NH-66 is no longer a shared road but a revenue entity that cuts out slower, local traffic. Access ramps are kilometres away from homes, schools, hospitals and markets. The social costs are enormous: Children miss school, small shops lose customers, and communities get cut off behind embankments and chaotic service roads. NH-66 doesn't just split society—it carves up the land. The old road flowed with Kerala's terrain, weaving through villages and water bodies. The new one rises like a wall, disconnecting east from west, upper land from lowlands. Water can't flow freely across it, nor can people move freely. In this plan, speed wins and people lose. What's most troubling is how this happened—with almost no public debate. Neither the Modi govt and the NHAI under Nitin Gadkari , nor the LDF govt in Kerala under Pinarayi Vijayan and PWD Minister Muhammed Riyas, allowed for meaningful consultation. Land was acquired in haste. Environmental concerns were waved aside. The Left and Right moved in sync—not to help people, but to bypass them. Revised Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) introduced elevated sections, toll plazas, and grade-separated junctions without explanation. The project was split into under-100 km segments to sidestep environmental and social impact assessments. Community protests, like the one in Keezhattoor, were suppressed. Even legally protected paddy fields were not spared. The shift from a common road to an access-controlled toll-paid corridor isn't just a technical shift—it's a political one. By cutting off two- and three-wheelers and tractors, the govt has created a two-tier road system: Fast lanes for the elite and broken lanes for everyone else. This violates the very principles of public infrastructure—equity and fairness. The embankment collapse in Kooriyad in May 2025 should have shaken the system. It didn't. It buried not only wetlands and paddy fields, but also public trust. Investigations exposed engineering and hydrological flaws. But the deeper issue remains: The systemic exclusion of the poor. Now, in July 2025, a second tragedy—a hill collapse in Cheravathoor, Kasaragod—has once again revealed the fragility of this project. Vehicles were buried. A contractor was fined. But accountability remains elusive. And once again, the public pays the price. As Kerala mourns the passing of former chief minister V S Achuthanandan, it's impossible not to wonder—would VS have allowed this? He was a leader who stood with the displaced, questioned reckless development and listened before damage was done. He would have sided with the protesters in Keezhattoor. He would have defended the wetlands. Above all, he would have defended the idea that infrastructure must serve the people, not bypass them. Today, that voice of clarity is missing. In its absence, NH-66 continues to rise—a concrete barrier that cuts across land, water, and society. It divides Kerala into those who can afford to glide over it, and those left stranded below. So, what must be done? Firstly, all modes of transport must regain access to the main line of NH 66. Service roads need widening and flood-proofing. Daily local users must be exempted from high tolls. DPRs and flood data should be released publicly and communities must be consulted on all changes. Kerala's infrastructure must align with its geography. Embankments should give way to viaducts in flood-prone zones. Paddy fields and wetlands must be preserved. A complete hydrological review of NH66 is urgently needed—and it must be transparent. NH66 was sold to the people as a promise. It must not become a betrayal. A public road must remain just that—public. If we act now, it can still be redesigned and made inclusive. It doesn't have to be a wall that divides Kerala. (The author is an environmental and social justice activist. He writes about democracy, ecology, agriculture, development and climate concerns)
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Move over Bharatmala, here comes Viksit Bharat Gati Shakti Maha marg, ETInfra
Advt By & , ETInfra After the Bharatmala Pariyojana road and highway development programme, the next phase of the country's road development will be centered around high-speed corridors and expressways, which will be christened ' Viksit Bharat Gati Shakti Mahamarg ' in keeping with the 'viksit' flavour of all government flagship schemes as the country marches towards a developed nation.'We undertook our first push towards highway development with the Golden Quadrilateral, the vision that was given out in the late 1990s and the second spurt has happened in the post 2014 era,' said V. Umashankar, Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways , in his address at ET Infra Roads and Highways Secretary highlighted that the country will now transition from highway development to more of high-speed corridors, expressway development with an aim to bring down the logistics cost.'We are looking at the same vision of a Golden Quadrilateral being translated into a high-speed corridor and the expressway corridor of Golden Quadrilateral. So, we are calling it the Viksit Bharat Gati Shakti Mahamarg. We still haven't got at the stage of approval for it, but our planning has been centered around that,' he added, outlining that the highway construction requirement is expected to reach saturation levels in 15-20 an interview to ET Infra earlier, Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra said the next phase of road development by the central government will be focused on developing 40,000 km of high-speed corridors which will enable vehicle speed of up to 120 km/hr.'The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' vision for 2047 envisages interstate connectivity and economic corridors which connect states and industrial corridors. Highway speed along with economic growth is the vision of the government,' Malhotra had Golden Quadrilateral project focused on developing a network of national highways connecting Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai, while the ongoing Bharatmala programme is aimed at providing National Highways linkage to 550 districts.
News18
18-07-2025
- News18
Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Likely To Boost Real Estate Demand In Rishikesh, Haridwar, Other Adjoining Areas
The Delhi-Dehradun expressway has triggered real estate growth, far beyond its immediate alignment. The Delhi-Dehradun Expressway is redefining regional connectivity and urban expansion across North India. Stretching 210 km and backed by a Rs 13,000-crore outlay under the Bharatmala Pariyojana, the expressway promises to slash commute times from 6.5 hours to just 2.5 hours. But, the numbers only tell part of the story. By linking urban centres like Ghaziabad, Muzaffarnagar, and Saharanpur with pilgrimage and tourist spots such as Haridwar and Dehradun, the corridor stitches together economies and aspirations. Its design, marked by twin tunnels and an elevated stretch through Rajaji National Park, signals a rare blend of progress and preservation. The Delhi–Dehradun Expressway unfolds in four meticulously planned phases, each engineered to unlock regional potential while easing urban choke points. Phase 1, a largely elevated 32-km stretch from Delhi to Baghpat, has already transformed a tedious commute into a swift 25-minute ride. The expressway would begin at Akshardham Temple in Pandav Nagar (Delhi) and terminate at the Eastern Peripheral Expressway in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh. Phase 2's 118-km greenfield expansion to Saharanpur integrates over 60 underpasses, reflecting an intent to merge speed with seamless local access. This will extend from the Baghpat (UP) EPE interchange to the Saharanpur (UP) Bypass. To provide easy access to nearby communities, the second phase will add two more lanes and four more interchanges. Phase 3 charts a 40-km course from the Saharanpur Bypass in Uttar Pradesh to Ganeshpur in Uttarakhand, near Sunderpur and Biharigarh. This six-lane stretch marks a crucial transition point, bridging the densely populated plains with the forested terrain of the Himalayan foothills. It is designed for opening up quieter geographies to new residential, logistic, and tourism-led possibilities. Phase 4 is where engineering meets ecological sensitivity. Stretching 19.5 km from Ganeshpur to Dehradun, this final leg carves through the Shivalik Hills and Rajaji Tiger Reserve via the Daat Kali Devi Tunnel. Here, the expressway embraces a dual responsibility, delivering connectivity while preserving one of the region's most vital biodiversity zones. The Metro Blueprint Beyond highway connectivity, Dehradun's future is being shaped by multi-modal transport integration. The upcoming Uttarakhand Metro, which was proposed in 2020 and slated for operation by 2026, is a critical urban mobility link that will complement the expressway's long-haul connectivity. This Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) spans two key corridors: Phase 1: Haridwar-Rishikesh (32 km), and Phase 2: Nepali Farm-Dehradun (41 km). Together, these lines aim to reduce road congestion, promote eco-tourism, and provide a seamless travel experience between religious, tourist, and urban nodes. For real estate, this means enhanced last-mile access, rising footfalls, and renewed developer confidence in transit-linked micro-markets. Infrastructure Development as the Catalyst Apart from the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway connectivity, the long-delayed expansion of Jolly Grant Airport near Dehradun has also gathered pace, with 87 hectares of land acquired for its upgrade. Once completed, the airport will support international flights and higher-capacity aircraft, positioning it as a strategic gateway not just to Dehradun, but also to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and the wider Char Dham circuit. Parallelly, the ambitious Char Dham Highway and Railway Projects, covering 889 km across spiritual hubs like Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, are quietly redrawing access to some of India's most revered yet remote landscapes, lending these geographies new layers of economic and real estate value. Impact On Real Estate The expressway has triggered real estate growth, far beyond its immediate alignment. In North-East Delhi and Ghaziabad, long plagued by bottlenecks, decongestion has improved liveability, and predictably, land values have soared. In Dehradun, the momentum is unmistakable. As per the Magic Bricks report, in the northern part of India, Tier-2 cities such as Dehradun present considerable investment opportunities due to their comparatively lower real estate prices. While Delhi's average price stands at Rs 18,618 per square foot, Dehradun offers more affordable options at Rs 5,653. Besides, the city sees a rise in demand for second homes, too. These residential properties are a strategic asset in a portfolio seeking growth, balance, and sustainability. Data from Magicbricks shows that Dehradun reported a 43% increase in demand for second homes, followed by Shimla with 34%, Karnal with 28%, and Rishikesh with 26%. The rising interest indicates a growing trend toward holiday homes and lifestyle investments in these scenic locations. Manit Sethi, director of Excentia Infra, said, 'Dehradun is no longer just a scenic escape; it has become a strategic real estate magnet. With the expressway redefining access, we're witnessing a decisive shift in buyer mindset. Professionals, retirees, and investors are now viewing Dehradun not only for its natural beauty but for its long-term potential. At Excentia, we anticipated this trend early and aimed at premium buyers. The real story is unfolding around micro-markets along the expressway, which we believe will be the next epicentres of growth in this evolving hill economy." Harvinder Singh Sikka, director at Sikka Group, said, 'The Delhi–Dehradun corridor aligns seamlessly with our long-term strategy of investing in high-potential Tier-2 markets. Infrastructure is the true catalyst here, be it the expressway, the upcoming Uttarakhand Metro, or the expansion of Jolly Grant Airport. Together, they are reducing travel time, improving logistics, and driving real estate activity at an unprecedented pace. We recognised this shift early, but as the region opens up to economic and residential growth, we look forward to catering to the region. We believe Dehradun's ecological fabric is fragile, and this boom must be anchored in sustainable design, balanced zoning, and a strong real estate framework." Sakshee Katiyal, chairperson of Home and Soul, said, 'We see this project transforming Dehradun into an extended suburb of the capital. Besides, the expressway will boost the connectivity and real estate appreciation and demand in other adjoining areas like Rishikesh and Haridwar. As developers, our interest lies in wellness-focused living spaces that cater to remote workers, retirees, and second-home seekers. What was once a weekend getaway may now be a full-time residential opportunity." About the Author Mohammad Haris Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris More Stay updated with all the latest business news, including market trends, stock updates, tax, IPO, banking finance, real estate, savings and investments. Get in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and real-time updates—only on News18. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : real estate view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 18, 2025, 18:04 IST News business » real-estate Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Likely To Boost Real Estate Demand In Rishikesh, Haridwar, Other Adjoining Areas Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
15-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
National highways proposed in Kerala now in limbo
Thiruvananthapuram: Two of Kerala's most significant road development plans, including the proposed Kozhikode-Mysore greenfield corridor and the declaration of 12 key road stretches as national highways (NHs), have hit a wall with Centre either stalling or quietly stepping back from earlier commitments. In a fresh representation to Union ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH), state urged urgent revival of both. Govt asked MPs from the state to take up the matter in Parliament. The Kozhikode-Mysore economic corridor, envisioned as a seamless 24-hour greenfield highway bypassing ecologically sensitive areas, was initially backed by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which engaged with forest department to finalise an alignment that would skirt major wildlife sanctuaries. However, the state flagged that NHAI was no longer pursuing the project actively—a development it described as "a matter of serious concern. " The proposed corridor was designed to offer uninterrupted interstate connectivity between Bengaluru and north Kerala, particularly vital in light of the night traffic ban on NH-766 and other roads passing through Bandipur and Wayanad forests. Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan personally raised the issue with Union road transport minister Nitin Gadkari during a meeting on Dec 6, 2024 but no follow-up commitments materialised. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo Equally troubling is Centre's failure to act on its earlier in-principle approval to declare 12 important road stretches in Kerala, totalling 484.6km, as NHs. While the directive to foreclose the preparation of detailed project reports (DPRs) came in July 2020, state is now pushing for these road stretches to be revived under the NH network, given that formal notification never followed despite the initial green light. The state's latest appeal underscores that these roads are strategically critical and their upgradation is even more urgent, considering Kerala's overburdened road infrastructure. State currently has just about 580km of NHs under PWD's purview. With one of the highest vehicle and population densities in the country, capacity expansion through centrally funded corridors is being projected as a non-negotiable priority. As these proposals under Bharatmala Pariyojana are being discontinued, state has submitted a fresh set of 17 road stretches covering 1,054km for inclusion in Vision 2047 Master Plan, which MoRTH is currently finalising. These corridors have been identified after a new assessment and reflect the evolving transport and logistics needs of the region, Kerala argues. Adding to its case, govt highlighted that no new major project has been sanctioned for Kerala through PWD's NH wing in the last four years. It urged Centre to include 14 proposed projects amounting to Rs 6,700 crore in MoRTH's current year annual plan, warning that worsening congestion and infrastructure fatigue would continue unless the pipeline was urgently revived. As Centre maintains silence despite multiple submissions, state has now shifted gears politically, urging its MPs to escalate the issue in Parliament in a coordinated push. While the projects themselves may have seen bureaucratic limbo for years, state's current campaign signals that the fight for them is anything but over.
Time of India
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway toll suspended: What's behind NHAI's sudden decision from today?
Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has suspended toll collection on a 28.71 km stretch of the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway starting July 15. The decision is linked to urgent repair work on a damaged section of NH-754K, under Package-4 of the Sanchore-Santalpur section. According to NHAI, the toll suspension aims to prioritise commuter safety and convenience. Repairs are ongoing, and toll services will resume only after the work is completed. The suspension began at 8:00 AM today. The affected stretch is part of the ambitious Bharatmala Pariyojana, a flagship national highway development program. This corridor is vital for interstate connectivity between Rajasthan and Gujarat and plays a key role in freight movement. CM orders immediate monsoon damage repairs The Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway is essential for improving access to major ports such as Jamnagar, Kandla, and Mundra. The temporary toll halt may affect logistics and transport routes, though it helps in maintaining infrastructure safety. What travelers and freight operators need to know? Toll collection on the 28.71 km stretch of the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway's Package-4 section is suspended from July 15, 2025, 8:00 AM onwards. Suspension will continue until the completion of urgent repair and rectification work. The move seeks to improve road safety and reduce potential disruptions caused by defects. The expressway facilitates faster, safer freight movement connecting northern states to western ports. Authorities urge commuters to stay updated with traffic advisories and alternative route information during repair operations. This temporary toll suspension on the Amritsar-Jamnagar Expressway shows NHAI's commitment to maintaining high infrastructure standards and safeguarding public convenience. FAQs 1. Why is the toll suspended on the Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway? Answer: The toll is suspended due to essential repair work on a 28.71 km section of NH-754K to ensure public safety. 2. When did the Amritsar-Jamnagar toll suspension begin? Answer: NHAI implemented the toll halt on July 15 at 8:00 AM, and it will continue until repair work is finished. 3. Which section of the Amritsar-Jamnagar expressway is affected? Answer: The suspended toll applies to Package-4 of the Sanchore-Santalpur section, part of the Amritsar-Jamnagar corridor. 4. Will freight and logistics services be delayed? Answer: There may be minor disruptions in freight movement, as the expressway is a key trade route to Gujarat's ports. 5. Is this part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana project? Answer: Yes, this stretch is a critical part of the Bharatmala Pariyojana, aiming to boost connectivity across India. For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here.
