West Bengal Paves Way for Highway Revamp with Formal Handover

The West Bengal government has approved the transfer of seven key highway stretches to national agencies, allowing long-delayed infrastructure projects to proceed. The move is expected to enhance connectivity to neighboring regions and nations, supporting economic and social developments across various districts in West Bengal.

The West Bengal government has finally given the nod to hand over seven strategic stretches of national highways to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL). This decision clears a significant backlog and allows essential infrastructure projects to move forward, improving connectivity in the region.

The highways, previously managed by the state's Public Works Department (PWD), had faced delays despite consistent appeals from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The official statement from the chief secretary's office highlights the stalled status of development works due to the absence of a formal handover, now resolved with the state’s approval.

The areas included in this transfer are critical in linking diverse regions, such as NH-312 from Jangipur to Ghojadanga and NH-33 up to Farakka. The decision bolsters links to Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Sikkim, fostering better integration with India's neighbors and facilitating economic growth in areas like Murshidabad and North 24 Parganas.