Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday, January 30, inaugurated nine National Highway projects worth ₹2,367 crore. The projects cover a total length of 225 km in Madhya Pradesh, marking a significant boost to the infrastructure and connectivity landscape of Jabalpur.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Union Minister Virendra Kumar, Union Minister of State Faggan Singh Kulaste, BJP State President V.D. Sharma, state ministers Prahlad Singh Patel and Rakesh Singh, along with MPs, MLAs, officers, and various dignitaries.
Among the key projects unveiled was a 1.5-km bridge spanning the Jamni rver on the Tikamgarh-Jhansi road, at a cost of ₹43 crore. This bridge is anticipated to facilitate easier access to Orchha, a popular tourist destination known for Rajaram's temple.
Additionally, a road with a two-lane paved shoulder from Chandia Ghat to Katni Bypass was inaugurated, promising a transformative impact on connectivity to the coal mines of Katni, ultimately benefiting the coal mining industry.
The widening of the Bamitha-Khajuraho road is expected to bolster tourism in Khajuraho, enhancing the overall social and economic conditions of the region.
Further, foundation stones were laid for projects encompassing the upgrading of the road from Gulganj bypass to Barna river; the two-lane road upgradation from Barna river to Ken river; upgradation with a two-lane paved shoulder from Shahdol to Sagartola, Lalitpur-Sagar; construction of 23 VUPs, bridges, service roads in the Lakhnadon section; and the construction of three foot overbridges at Suktra, Kurai, and Khawasa.
Additionally, improvement work at two black spots, Ghunai and Banjari Valley, was announced.
These initiatives are expected to enhance the connectivity of the surrounding areas, leading to saving of both time and fuel, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways said in a statement. The region is poised to witness multifaceted development from economic, social, and tourism perspectives, marking a significant stride in the overall progress of Madhya Pradesh, it added.
(Edited by : Shoma Bhattacharjee)
