How Did National Highways Under NHAI Surge by 120% from 4,000 km in 2014 to 8,700 km by 2025?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced a remarkable expansion of National Highways under NHAI, increasing from 4,000 km in 2014 to 8,700 km by 2025. This development promises to strengthen infrastructure across Andhra Pradesh, enhance connectivity, and drastically reduce logistics costs. Discover how these initiatives will shape India's growth landscape.
Key Takeaways
- National Highways under NHAI have increased by 120%.
- Investment of Rs 5,233 crore for 29 projects in Andhra Pradesh.
- Significant reduction in logistics costs from 16% to 10%.
- Enhanced connectivity to religious and tourist destinations.
- Focus on infrastructure-led economic growth.
New Delhi, Aug 2 (NationPress) Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari announced on Saturday that the length of National Highways governed by NHAI has surged by 120 percent, expanding from 4,000 km in 2014 to 8,700 km by 2025.
During the event, Gadkari inaugurated and laid the groundwork for 29 National Highway projects spanning 272 km, with a collective investment exceeding Rs 5,233 crore in Andhra Pradesh.
The occasion was graced by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, along with Union Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Union MoS Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma, Union MoS Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, and various MPs, MLAs, and senior officials in Mangalagiri, Andhra Pradesh.
In his address, Gadkari emphasized, “In alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, these initiatives aim to eradicate accident-prone black spots and railway crossings, lower transportation expenses, bolster last-mile connectivity in rural and tribal regions, and alleviate congestion in significant urban areas such as Tirupati, Nellore, and Rayachoty—thus positioning Andhra Pradesh as a leader in India’s growth narrative.”
He underlined a notable decrease in India’s logistics expenses. Enhanced road infrastructure has reduced logistics costs from 16 percent to 10 percent, with projections suggesting a decline to 9 percent by December 2025. This reduction is anticipated to double exports and enhance job opportunities.
Gadkari remarked that the length of National Highways under NHAI has grown by 120 percent—from 4,000 km in 2014 to 8,700 km in 2025—illustrating the government's dedication to infrastructure-driven economic development.
The Madanapalle to Pileru stretch of NH-71 has been upgraded into a modern 4-lane corridor covering 56 km, constructed at a cost of Rs 1,994 crore. This substantial enhancement includes nine flyovers, a rail overbridge, 19 major bridges, five vehicular underpasses, and 10 local underpasses.
Likewise, the Kurnool to Mandlem section of NH-340C has been developed into a 4-lane road with paved shoulders over 31 km, featuring one flyover, four viaducts, three local underpasses, and a minor underpass, at an expense of Rs 858 crore.
In addition to these advancements, foundation stones are being laid for 27 more projects intended to improve connectivity throughout Andhra Pradesh. These projects will enhance access to religious sites like Tirupati, Srisailam, and Kadiri, and tourist destinations such as Horsley Hills and Vodarevu Beach. Seamless connections to economic hubs—Sri City, Krishnapatnam Port, and Tirupati Airport—will also be established.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the government's commitment to infrastructure development, particularly in the context of the growing National Highways network. This expansion signifies a strategic push towards enhancing connectivity, reducing logistics costs, and ultimately supporting economic growth, aligning with national priorities.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the increase in National Highways under NHAI?
The length of National Highways under NHAI has increased by 120 percent, from 4,000 km in 2014 to 8,700 km in 2025.
What are the key objectives of the new highway projects?
The new highway projects aim to eliminate accident-prone areas, reduce transportation costs, enhance last-mile connectivity in rural areas, and alleviate congestion in urban centers.
How much investment is being made in Andhra Pradesh highway projects?
Over Rs 5,233 crore is being invested in 29 National Highway projects in Andhra Pradesh.
What impact will the road infrastructure improvements have?
The improvements are expected to reduce logistics costs significantly, potentially doubling exports and creating job opportunities.
Which areas will benefit from the new highway projects?
The highway projects will benefit regions such as Tirupati, Nellore, and Rayachoty, as well as improve access to religious and tourist destinations.
