Mumbai, Oct 1 (NationPress) The infrastructure committee of the Maharashtra cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has granted approval for the construction of a 204-kilometer long four-lane cement concrete expressway linking Nagpur to Chandrapur.

Additionally, Chief Minister Fadnavis instructed the submission of a proposal for a new highway connecting Chandrapur to Mul.

The projected cost for the 204 km stretch to Chandrapur city (11 km) is approximately Rs 2353.39 crore, which includes land acquisition expenses.

For the 162 km expressway from Nagpur to Gondia, land acquisition and licensing processes are currently in progress, with an estimated cost of Rs 18,539 crore. The 94 km route from Bhandara to Gadchiroli is projected to cost Rs 10,298 crore, with preliminary processes already underway.

CM Fadnavis emphasized the importance of creating an 'ecosystem' of development surrounding future road projects.

He urged the administration to acquire land proactively, suggesting an extension of the Nagpur-Chandpur highway up to the Surjagad iron project in Gadchiroli.

“Timely completion of development projects is essential. Delays lead to increased financial burdens on the state. Currently, infrastructure projects worth Rs 10 lakh crore are being executed, and their progress must remain uninterrupted. Successful completion will enhance economic momentum,” stated the Chief Minister.

He instructed that future infrastructure initiatives should first be presented on the Gatishakti portal, and no project should commence without it.

Fadnavis also called for a government directive for thorough planning of irrigation projects, emphasizing early land acquisition.

“The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation should expand and establish distinct departments to facilitate project execution. To accelerate infrastructure development, experienced professionals should be recruited externally. Assigning IDs to projects will help minimize payment irregularities,” he remarked.

The Chief Minister urged the Public Works and Water Supply Departments to implement a strict timeline for settling outstanding dues.

He also recommended the use of modern technology to ensure payments are made only for completed work. Regarding enhancements along the Samruddhi Highway, he mentioned the establishment of toilets at 16 locations, along with the addition of petrol stations and food courts.

“The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation should hire a consultant. At least four of the 16 locations along the highway should be developed for tourism. Funding mechanisms should be created to attract investors interested in infrastructure projects, ensuring they receive fixed returns for their contributions,” he concluded.