Chhattisgarh gets Rs 7,000 cr boost for road projects after CM Vishnu Deo Sai meets Gadkari

In a significant push to accelerate infrastructure development in Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai met Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi on Thursday.

During the meeting, several key road projects in the state received approval, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and economic growth.

According to officials, the Union Minister directed authorities to expedite financial clearances for projects worth over ₹7,000 crore currently in the pipeline. The Centre also sanctioned ₹600 crore under the Central Road Fund (CRF), which will be utilised for the construction and upgradation of roads across the state.

To address growing traffic congestion in the capital city Raipur, four major bridges are set to be constructed, with foundation-laying ceremonies to take place soon. Additionally, the roads linking Raipur with other districts will be expanded from two to four lanes to facilitate faster and safer transportation.

It was also decided that the state’s road planning will now be integrated with the Centre’s Gati Shakti portal to enable swifter project clearances. Union Minister Gadkari directed that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) be promptly prepared for a proposed 95-kilometre six-lane road connecting Raipur–Arang–Bilaspur–Darri. The road is expected to serve key industrial, agricultural, and educational hubs in the region. The Samriddhi Expressway will also be extended up to Raipur.

Several additional projects were cleared during the meeting. These include the upgradation of National Highway No. 130A, elevation work on National Highway No. 43, and strengthening of National Highway No. 30—collectively valued at ₹115.95 crore. Among the approved segments, a 15-km road within Bilaspur city is expected to ease urban traffic flow, while an 11-km section of the Katni-Gumla route will enhance rural connectivity. In Keshkal, a 4-km stretch will be strengthened, improving access for residents in hilly areas.

“Roads are not just a means of travel; they are pathways to development, employment, and social transformation,” Chief Minister Sai said. He added that under the state government’s 'Anjor Vision 2047', efforts are being made to ensure every village and citizen benefits from improved and environmentally friendly transportation.

The meeting was also attended by Subodh Singh, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, and Dr Kamalpreet Singh, Secretary of the Public Works Department.