Network Planning Group Reviews Five Key Rail & Road Projects

The Network Planning Group (NPG), operating under the PM Gati Shakti initiative, convened a crucial meeting to review five major infrastructure projects, covering both rail and road sectors. These projects are strategically important for enhancing multi-modal connectivity, reducing logistical costs, and improving the overall transport efficiency across various regions of India. The meeting emphasized alignment with the objectives of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.

---

1. Multi-Modal Approach Under Gati Shakti Framework

One of the key highlights of the meeting was the emphasis on the multi-modal integration of the proposed projects. The NPG evaluated whether the projects were in sync with the Gati Shakti principles, including alignment with other modes of transportation, such as ports, highways, and industrial corridors.

• Each project was reviewed to ensure it complemented existing or upcoming infrastructure.
• The goal is to minimize last-mile connectivity gaps and avoid duplication of efforts.
• Planners focused on future-proofing these projects by aligning them with long-term growth projections.

---

2. Five Infrastructure Projects Reviewed

The Network Planning Group assessed the following five projects:

• Three Road Projects: These include upgrades and new alignments to national highways in high-traffic and economically strategic corridors. Their focus is on reducing congestion, enabling faster freight movement, and connecting industrial hubs.
• Two Rail Projects: These are aimed at decongesting key railway routes, boosting freight capacity, and facilitating better connectivity for ports and logistics parks.

Each project was assessed for its technical feasibility, inter-ministerial coordination, and expected socio-economic benefits.

---

3. Strategic Impact Zones and Industrial Linkages

The reviewed projects span across multiple states and are designed to serve Strategic Economic Zones, logistics parks, and industrial clusters.

• The NPG discussed how these projects can facilitate the movement of goods from manufacturing zones to ports and vice versa.
• Special focus was placed on regions identified under the National Logistics Policy for improvement.
• The group evaluated how these projects support India’s goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy by improving infrastructure-led growth.

---

4. Inter-Ministerial Coordination and Digital Planning Tools

The NPG stressed the importance of inter-ministerial coordination, a hallmark of the Gati Shakti initiative. Inputs were taken from ministries including:

• Ministry of Railways
• Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
• Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
• Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways

The projects were reviewed using the GIS-based PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan Portal, which allows real-time data sharing, mapping of existing and planned infrastructure, and effective alignment with national priorities.

---

5. Emphasis on Sustainability and Cost Efficiency

The reviewed projects were also assessed for their environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

• Projects must ensure minimal forest and environmental impact, reduce carbon footprints, and promote green logistics.
• The use of recycled construction material, energy-efficient transport modes, and environmentally friendly technologies was encouraged.
• Cost reduction through synchronized planning and shared infrastructure was a key parameter in approval decisions.

---

6. Fast-Tracking Approvals and Monitoring Mechanisms

The NPG emphasized timely approvals and implementation. Delays due to overlapping jurisdictions and lack of coordination were identified in previous projects, and mechanisms are being put in place to address such issues.

• A common dashboard is being developed to monitor project timelines.
• Regular follow-ups will be held to resolve bottlenecks at the planning or execution level.

---

Group Media Publication
Construction, Infrastructure and Mining   
General News Platforms – IHTLive.com
Entertainment News Platforms – https://anyflix.in/

---