The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has revealed that the first phase of the ambitious Bharatmala Pariyojana, a nationwide highway development project, is expected to be completed by 2027-28. Originally slated for completion within a shorter timeframe, the project has encountered delays, leading to an extended deadline.

Bharatmala Pariyojana, launched with the aim of improving India's road infrastructure, is one of the largest highway projects undertaken by the government. Phase I alone encompasses the development of over 34,800 kilometres of highways, focusing on improving connectivity to border areas, ports, and backward regions.

However, the project has faced significant financial challenges, with costs surpassing the original estimates. According to the MoRTH report, the budget for Phase I has already been exceeded by a substantial margin. The report highlights that factors such as land acquisition difficulties, increased construction costs, and unforeseen delays have contributed to the budget escalation.

Despite these hurdles, the government remains committed to completing the project, which is critical for enhancing the efficiency of freight movement across the country. The highways developed under Bharatmala are expected to reduce travel time, lower logistics costs, and facilitate the economic growth of the regions they connect.

MoRTH's focus is now on expediting the remaining work to meet the revised 2027-28 deadline. Efforts are being made to streamline processes, address bottlenecks, and ensure timely completion of the project. The ministry is also exploring ways to manage costs better and avoid further budget overruns.

The completion of Phase I is anticipated to provide a significant boost to India's infrastructure landscape, improving road connectivity and supporting the nation's economic ambitions. As the project progresses, it will continue to play a pivotal role in transforming India's transportation network and driving regional development.