Focus on Roads, Railways, and Urban Development
Under the PM GatiShakti programme, a total of 208 infrastructure projects, amounting to Rs 15.39 lakh crore, have been proposed for clearance. These projects primarily focus on roads and railways, with 101 projects related to roadways and 73 dedicated to rail infrastructure. Additionally, 12 urban development initiatives and four projects from the oil and gas sector are also part of this proposal. The Network Planning Group (NPG), a key body within the GatiShakti framework, plays a pivotal role in identifying and recommending these large-scale logistics and connectivity projects.
Key Connectors for Bulk Goods Transportation Identified
The programme also aims to streamline the transportation of bulk goods, such as coal and cement, by identifying 156 critical connectors that link production hubs to major ports. This initiative is expected to enhance the efficiency of goods movement across the country, further boosting India’s logistical capabilities.
Geospatial Mapping Aids in Comprehensive Infrastructure Planning
The National Master Plan, which features over 1,600 layers of geospatial data, plays an integral role in consolidating infrastructure planning. This tool provides detailed information on physical and communal frameworks, ensuring that project planning is more informed and comprehensive. Projects that require investments exceeding Rs 500 crore must first secure clearance from the NPG before receiving approval from the Finance Ministry’s Department of Expenditure or the Public Investment Board (PIB).