Indian Infrastructure sector, which encompasses tunneling has been so rapid and it is Nitin Gadkari-Union Minister, Road Transport and Highways who inaugurated critical details of current tunnel projects to under construction new ones along National Highways by NHAI is part of the Government’s much-wide vision towards higher infrastructure levels by world-class levels.
Present Under Construction and proposed Tunnels
As of December 2024, there are underway over 75 tunnel projects collectively with a worth of Rs 49,000 crores with an under-construction length of over 146 km in India. So, these add up to the rapidly rising connectivity of the country with effective strategic tunnels.
Current Operations in Tunnels: Main Observations
- Total Number of Projects Undertaken: 75
- Total Tunnel Length: 146 km
- Investment: Rs 49,000 crore
- Built Projects Cost: 35 projects of 49 kilometers worth Rs 20,000 crores.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari made this announcement in the World Tunnel Day 2024. He stated how the tunnels were proving to be an asset in the country’s developing infrastructure.
India Tunnel Sector: Growth Point
As Gadkari said, modern infrastructure and a new vision of the future is at the heart of India’s aspirations to emerge as the third largest economy of the world. To make this ambitious dream a reality, India needs top-class infrastructure across sectors. Sectors that encompass tunnels also become important as roads are just not the ones under development, but hydropower projects, metro systems, and railway lines come under those massive sectors.
Increase the Tunnel Network All Over India
These are on-going projects that form part of the overall strategy towards the betterment of the connectivity of the country through roads where traveling time has been reduced and improved economic activities between far-flung places and the city. Gadkari said that the government would continue to provide secure and environment-friendly tunneling facilities that will serve various industries.
In addition to the 75 under-construction projects, 78 future tunnel projects are going to add to India’s tunneling network. The total of 78 new projects is estimated to be a total of 285 kilometers and amounts to Rs 1.10 lakh crore. This is an enormous step for India’s infrastructure capabilities.
Major Projects in Pipeline
Such subsequent projects are aimed for tunnels on more important routes and would connect one place to the other for good connectivity, developing tourism, reducing congestion, etc. Some are even being readied with technology for safety and sustainability.
One more great news was about the biggest upcoming project for Assam-under Brahmaputra River tunnel to be constructed. It will be one of the biggest, most complex, and ambitious tunneling projects in India and further open up fresh avenues for road and railway transport in this region.
Opportunities for Contractors and consultants:
Tunneling industry opportunities have increased by multifold as part of the same. It provides contractors, consultants, and others with immense infrastructure-related demand in terms of experience and human resource. According to Gadkari, statements implied that this was an exponentially growth industry which had to grow and thrive, at least with regard to governmental investment and sustainable infrastructure with long-term perspectives.
Significance of Tunnels in Contemporary Infrastructure
Tunnels are now part of the core components of massive road projects with other infrastructural projects. With the rise in demand all over the world for more environment-friendly and efficient transport systems, tunnels have emerged as one of the most popular choices in urban planning to mitigate traffic congestion while minimizing environmental impacts.
Tunnels are gradually becoming more critical in hydropower projects, railways, and metro systems. In many areas, it is impossible or even too expensive to make surface construction feasible-countries like mountainous terrain or flood-prone regions.
Government Vision for Future Infrastructure in India
It is all about infrastructure and building the same to match the needs of an ever-growing developing nation, according to the Indian government. The kind of project that NHAI is undertaking would surely push the frontiers of engineering and innovation as it works toward making Indian roads and highways safer, more efficient, and globally competitive.
In the speech, Gadkari declared that this government is devoted to infrastructure, which will keep in pace with the world. Within the near future, it vows investments in the city and country sides to put form into millions of economic growth enhancing through connectivity along with improving the quality of life.
Conclusion: Brighter days ahead for Indian Tunnelling
India is on the threshold of a gigantic change in its tunnel infrastructure. With more than 75 projects currently underway, large investments, and a series of new initiatives lined up, the sector is set to change the face of transport and energy networks in the country. More tunnels would bring better connectivity but also an economy that will be stronger through efficient transportation and enhanced infrastructure.
As Nitin Gadkari appropriately said, “The scope of contractors and consultants in this industry is huge”. With Rs 1.10 lakh crore worth of projects on the anvil, India’s tunnel infrastructure promises much for the future. Pretty evident is the fact that tunnels will have a very prominent role to play in the realization of the infrastructure goals of the country in the years to come.
Refer:
Financial Express, Link to article