How is the Centre Accelerating Major Infrastructure Projects in Southern States?
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Synopsis
The Centre is taking decisive steps to address key issues affecting major infrastructure projects in southern states. With a focus on collaboration and problem-solving, officials are committed to enhancing connectivity and economic growth.
Key Takeaways
- The meeting aimed to resolve key issues affecting infrastructure projects.
- Five significant projects in Karnataka were reviewed.
- Major initiatives in Kerala and Telangana were discussed.
- The Trivandrum-Kanyakumari railway project is crucial for regional connectivity.
- The 5G/4G initiative aims to improve digital connectivity nationwide.
New Delhi, Sep 1 (NationPress) Amardeep Singh Bhatia, the Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), presided over a crucial meeting aimed at hastening the resolution of significant issues impacting large-scale infrastructure initiatives in Karnataka, Kerala, and Telangana.
High-ranking officials from various Central Ministries, State Governments, and project stakeholders participated, concentrating on accelerating problem resolution through improved coordination facilitated by the Project Monitoring Group (PMG).
In Karnataka, five major issues across five prominent projects, with a combined project cost of Rs 3,658 crore, were assessed.
In Kerala, two projects amounting to Rs 5,002 crore were scrutinized, while three projects with a total cost of Rs 1,934 crore were discussed in Telangana.
One of the key projects under review was the Trivandrum-Kanyakumari railway line doubling project, which spans Kerala and Tamil Nadu. With an estimated budget of Rs 3,785 crore, this initiative aims to double the existing single-track line to reduce travel duration, enhance train frequency, and improve both passenger and freight movement in the region.
Upon completion, the project is expected to significantly bolster regional connectivity, alleviate road congestion, and foster tourism and local economic growth. Challenges such as land acquisition, environmental clearances, and local resistance were noted, with authorities urged to resolve these matters promptly to ensure timely project execution and maximize socio-economic advantages.
The meeting also reviewed the 5G/4G network expansion initiative by Reliance Jio. Discussions with the Government of Telangana focused on the swift resolution of outstanding forest and wildlife clearance issues. This project aims to extend 5G connectivity to remote and underserved areas nationwide while simultaneously enhancing existing 4G infrastructure. The successful implementation of this initiative is expected to significantly advance digital connectivity, including in strategically sensitive and geographically isolated regions, furthering the government's vision of a digitally empowered India.
The Secretary of DPIIT reiterated the Government's commitment to reinforcing the institutional framework for project monitoring and instructed relevant authorities to take a proactive stance in addressing outstanding issues. He also underscored the need for private sector proponents to utilize the specialized mechanisms of the Project Monitoring Group (PMG) (https://pmg.dpiit.gov.in/) to expedite project execution and ensure timely resolution of concerns through collaboration among the Central Government, State Governments, and private stakeholders.
Point of View
I observe that the government's proactive approach, exemplified in this meeting, underscores a commitment to bolstering our nation’s infrastructure. By fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, we can expect significant advancements in connectivity and economic growth in the southern states, aligning with our national interests.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the high-level meeting?
The meeting aimed to expedite the resolution of critical issues impacting major infrastructure projects in Karnataka, Kerala, and Telangana.
Who chaired the meeting?
Amardeep Singh Bhatia, the Secretary of DPIIT, chaired the high-level meeting.
What is the significance of the Trivandrum-Kanyakumari railway project?
This project aims to enhance regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and improve economic activity in the area.
How much is the 5G/4G network expansion initiative expected to cost?
While specific costs were not disclosed, the initiative aims to significantly improve connectivity in remote areas.
What is the role of the Project Monitoring Group (PMG)?
The PMG facilitates collaboration between central and state governments and private stakeholders to address project concerns and expedite implementation.
