Speed Post News Network
New Delhi : Union Road Transport & Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on August 30, 2020, inaugurated through video link three important bridges and two road improvement projects in Gadchiroli District of Maharashtra. The Minister also laid foundation for four other major bridge projects across the rivers Wainganga, Bandiya, Perikota, and Perimili. These projects are considered crucial for improving mobility for socio-economic development of the Gadchiroli district.
The projects inaugurated today were:
- 855 metre major bridge across Pranahita river on Nizamabad – Jagdalpur Road (NH 63) at a cost of Rs 168 cr.,
- 630 metre high level bridge across the Indravati River near Patagudam on Nizamabad – Jagdalpur Road (NH 63) at a cost of Rs 248 cr.
- 30 metre high level bridge near Lankachen on Bejurpalli – Aheri Road,
- Improvement of Bejurpalli-Aheri Road (SH 275) between Watra and Moyabinpeta
- Improvement of Garanji – Pustola Road
Speaking on the occasion, Gadkari said with the construction of these key bridges, the National Highway connectivity in Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh –Telangana is complete now. “This is a dream which has come true after nearly 25 years, when it was conceived when I was a Minister in Maharashtra.” Gadkari said the total length of National Highway in Gadchiroli district has increased from 54 km to 647 km during his tenure. The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has approved 44 road projects of 541 km length with an outlay of Rs 1,740 crores for Gadchiroli district.
“The all-weather road network in far flung areas of Naxal affected districts like Gadchiroli will improve the socio-economic development in the region and in next two years or so the Gadchiroli district will see an all-round transformation,” the Minister remarked.
Gadkari complimented the engineers and contractors who completed the construction of bridges in Gadchiroli, despite the fear of Naxals. He informed that the bridge across River Indravati was completed under very trying and war like conditions. A police station had to be set up to help construct the bridge.
Gadkari also laid the foundation for 4 Major Bridges on Perimilli, Bandiya , Pearikota and Waingagana River in the district. The existing bridges across these rivers are narrow and often get submerged during monsoon. The bridge across the Wainganga River of approximately 825 meters will improve the connectivity between Gadchiroli and Chandrapur District. The Minister also asked NHAI officials to utilise the saved amount of Rs.50 crore during the works of Major bridges to construct 14 Minor Bridges and ensure seamless transportation in otherwise inaccessible areas of Gadchiroli districts.
Speaking about his vision for development of backward areas in the capacity of a MSME Minister, Gadkari said with bamboo available in plenty, Gadchiroli can become the hub of Agarbatti manufacturing, whose import has now been stopped. He said there is a scope to set up 100 units, which would give employment to local people. The Minister also said that he is initiating project for conversion of rice to ethanol in Gadchiroli as part of bio-fuel development programme. “This will provide greater value for rice growers and also create jobs,” he added.
MoS RTH Gen V K Singh complimented the completion of developmental Road projects in the area and said this will go a long way in mainstreaming of people living in LWE areas.