NHAI's Ambitious Plan for 2025-26

In a bold move to revitalize India's highway infrastructure, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced plans to bid out 124 highways and expressway projects worth a staggering Rs 3.4 lakh crore in the current financial year (2025-26). This initiative aims to address the recent slowdown in project awards and inject new life into the country's highway development efforts.

Addressing the Slowdown

The past two years have seen a noticeable deceleration in the awarding of projects by NHAI, partly due to the pause in the government's flagship Bharatmala highway development program. From 6,003 km in 2022-23, the awarded projects dropped to 3,339 km in 2023-24, with a slight recovery to 4,008 km in 2024-25. A significant factor behind this trend has been the government's policy to initiate bids only after 90% land availability is secured.

Engaging the Private Sector

Nearly 78% of the upcoming projects will be offered under the public-private partnership (PPP) model, highlighting major ventures such as the 476 km Gorakhpur-Kishangan-Siliguri highway, the 282 km Patna-Purnea stretch, and two segments of the Nashik-Ahmednagar highway. These projects represent a combined investment of over Rs 71,000 crore, with the remainder to be funded entirely by the government.

Looking Ahead

By publicly listing these projects, NHAI aims to foster transparency and readiness among highway developers, mitigating the uncertainty that has clouded the sector in recent years. This strategic push is expected to not only accelerate infrastructure development but also stimulate economic growth across regions.