What is the status of Gujarat's Rs 18,000 crore infrastructure projects?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 21 major infrastructure projects are under review, valued at over Rs 18,000 crore.
- Projects span across nine departments crucial for state development.
- Emphasis on timely completion and high operational standards.
- Formation of a core monitoring committee for better coordination.
- Focus on urban infrastructure, healthcare, and transportation.
Ahmedabad, June 25 (NationPress) Gujarat's Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel led a crucial meeting in Gandhinagar to assess the progress of 21 significant infrastructure and development initiatives totaling over Rs 18,000 crore. These projects span nine departments and are deemed essential for the state’s growth trajectory. Patel emphasized the importance of both speed and quality, directing senior officials to guarantee timely completion while upholding high construction and operational standards.
Joined by Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi and Chief Advisor Dr. Hasmukh Adhia, the Chief Minister reviewed both ongoing and upcoming projects in vital sectors, including roads, ports, healthcare, housing, transport, and energy.
To improve inter-departmental collaboration and optimize execution, Patel proposed the establishment of a core monitoring committee chaired by the Chief Secretary. He also advocated for regular site inspections and stringent oversight, especially for projects that involve partnerships with central agencies and ministries.
Updates from the Ports and Transport Department were sought, particularly regarding the deep-sea industrial pipeline projects in Surat and Vapi, the redevelopment of the Bhavnagar Brownfield Port, and the construction of fishing harbors at Veraval, Sutrapada, and Madhwad. Officials from the Road and Building Department, along with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), provided insights on ongoing highway expansion and bridge construction efforts across the state.
The meeting also evaluated the progress of the Rs 500 crore modern police training center in Khalal, Kheda district, which is designed to accommodate and train over 2,500 police personnel.
From the health sector, updates were given on the new OPD complex at Surat’s New Civil Hospital and the planned 425-bed Civil Hospital in Mansa, Gandhinagar.
Patel urged the Health Department to accelerate both projects. Urban infrastructure was another focus, as the Chief Minister reviewed plans for 10,000 affordable housing units for economically weaker sections (EWS) within Ahmedabad and a critical railway over-bridge project near Talod on the Dahegam-Himatnagar line.
Further discussions included the AmulFed Dairy Plant in Gadhka, various water pipeline initiatives from the Water Resources Department, and power distribution enhancements in Vadodara and Dahod districts.