India and World Bank Partner for Green National Highway Project

The Government of India and the World Bank signed a significant agreement to construct the Green National Highway Corridors Project, covering 781 kilometers across four states. The project, valued at USD 1288.24 million, emphasizes eco-friendly construction and aims to improve regional connectivity and socio-economic development.

The Government of India and the World Bank have signed an agreement to develop the Green National Highway Corridors Project (GNHCP), the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways announced Thursday. The project will span 781 kilometers across Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh, supported by a USD 500 million loan from the World Bank, with a total cost of USD 1288.24 million (Rs. 7,662.47 crore).

According to the Ministry, the final package of the GNHCP is set for completion by May 2026. Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted the project's objectives in a social media post on X, emphasizing safe, environmentally friendly highway construction, climate resilience, and green technology adoption.

The GNHCP focuses on conserving natural resources by utilizing cement-treated sub-base, reclaimed asphalt pavement, and local materials like lime, fly ash, and waste plastic. The initiative also incorporates bio-engineering techniques for slope protection, including coco fiber, jute erosion control blankets, hydroseeding, and Shotcrete crib walls with vegetation.

Other methods such as bamboo plantations and interlink chain mesh with grass strips will be employed, particularly in hilly areas, to reduce carbon emissions and promote natural resource conservation throughout the project's lifecycle. The primary goal is to ensure smooth, all-weather connectivity, enhancing regional trade and socio-economic development.

This project is expected to foster inclusive growth and prosperity, particularly in inner regions previously isolated from mainstream economic activities. The ministry noted that improved local connectivity and new employment opportunities would help integrate these areas into the broader national economy. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)