Consider the following statements with reference to Bharatmala Pariyojana:

(1) The main objective of the Bharatmala Pariyojana is to enhance road transport efficiency by eliminating structural differences in different parts of the country.

(2) Bharatmala Pariyojana also includes development of highways along India's borders to enhance national security.

Choose the correct option :

The correct answer is Option 2.

Key Points

• Bharatmala Pariyojana is a flagship program launched by the Government of India aimed at improving road infrastructure across the country.
• The primary objective of Bharatmala Pariyojana is to enhance road transport efficiency by bridging critical infrastructure gaps and eliminating structural differences in various regions.
• The scheme also includes the development of highways along India's borders, contributing to national security by improving connectivity in border areas.
• It focuses on optimizing freight movement and reducing logistics costs, thereby facilitating economic growth and development.
• The program covers projects such as economic corridors, border and international connectivity roads, coastal and port connectivity roads, and greenfield expressways.

Additional Information

• Economic Corridors:
  • Economic corridors are developed to improve connectivity between industrial hubs and consumption centers.
  • These corridors aim to reduce freight movement costs and enhance overall logistics efficiency.
• Border Roads:
  • Development of border roads under Bharatmala Pariyojana ensures strategic connectivity to India's borders.
  • These roads are crucial for national security and help facilitate the movement of defense personnel and equipment.
• Greenfield Expressways:
  • Greenfield expressways are newly constructed highways with advanced infrastructure for faster and more efficient travel.
  • These expressways reduce congestion and improve connectivity between major cities and regions.
• Implementation Agency:
  • The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is responsible for implementing the Bharatmala Pariyojana.
  • NHAI ensures timely execution and quality standards for all road projects under the program.
• Funding:
  • The program is financed through various modes, including budgetary allocations, toll collections, and market borrowings.
  • It is one of India's largest road infrastructure initiatives, with an estimated investment of ₹5.35 lakh crore.