Gadkari Seeks Urgent Action to Facilitate Inter-State Movement of Trucks Carrying Essential Items

Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways has called upon all the states and union territories to take urgent action to clear the blockade of trucks and lorries at inter-state borders at the earliest possible, as smooth movement of essential goods to various parts of the country was essential. This, he said, needed to be given urgent attention by facilitating the movement of trucks and lorries to ease up lives of the public in the light of lockdown announced to curb COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking at the meeting of road transport ministers of states and union territories via video conference, Gadkari urged the ministers to intervene in such matters and ensure resolutions through the local and district administrations. At the same time, he underlined the following the health advisories and other guideline like observance of proper distancing, wearing of masks and the use of sanitisers by drivers, cleaners and employees of dhabas or roadside eateries.

Gadkari further pointed out that transportation of labour to factories etc. may be facilitated by duly following the health protocols of maintaining minimum one metre distance, wearing masks, use of sanitisers etc. He pointed out that providing food and shelter to labour may be ensured while fully observing the norms of social distancing and hygiene.

Responding to a suggestion Gadkari informed that his Ministry will start a helpline to resolve the transportation issues.

Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways General (Retd) V K Singh was also present at the meeting.

Gadkari informed that he was according top priority to the development of roads & highways infrastructure and planned to enhance national highway construction by up to three times of the present pace in next couple of years. He urged the states and union territories to expedite land acquisition as delays hampered the pace of development and asked the them to utilise funds which were remaining unused with them to the extent of about Rs 250 billion.

A presentation was made showing the works being carried during the lockdown period. It was stated that 1,315 projects covering 49,238 km worth Rs 5.89 trillion were under progress, of which 819 projects covering 30,301 km costing about Rs 3.06 trillion were delayed. It also showed state-specific issues like pending land acquisition, environment clearance, etc., had delayed implementation of projects. The participating states were suggested to take definitive steps towards mitigating the difficulties before the highways sector.