Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Ajmer, Rajasthan, launched nine significant road infrastructure projects with a total investment of ₹5,235 crore. These projects, which include the inauguration and foundation stone laying of various highways and elevated roads, are aimed at transforming the state's transport landscape. According to official reports, the initiatives focus on enhancing connectivity between major cities, improving rural access, and strengthening the infrastructure in border areas. The Prime Minister emphasized that these developments are part of a broader vision to accelerate economic growth through solid infrastructure.
Urban Transformation through Elevated Road Networks
To address the growing traffic congestion in major urban centers, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for two major elevated road projects. In Jodhpur, a four-lane elevated road will be constructed from Mahamandir to Akhaliya Chauraha at an estimated cost of ₹1,243 crore. This project is expected to provide a easy transit route through the heart of the city, while similarly, in Jaipur, an elevated road project in the Sanganer area was initiated with an investment of ₹287 crore. Officials stated that these elevated corridors are designed to segregate local and through traffic, Notably reducing travel time for commuters and improving urban mobility.
Strategic Expansion of Greenfield Expressways
A key highlight of the infrastructure push is the development of the Bandikui-Jaipur four-lane Greenfield Expressway, being built at a cost of ₹1,208 crore. This expressway will serve as a vital link connecting the Delhi-Vadodara Expressway to the state capital, Jaipur. Also, an eight-lane carriage-way from the junction of NH-76 to the junction of NH-12 near Ummedpura village has been completed with an investment of ₹1,114 crore. These high-speed corridors are expected to facilitate faster movement of goods and services, integrating Rajasthan more effectively with the national economic grid.
Enhancing Connectivity in Border and Rural Districts
The Prime Minister also dedicated several projects aimed at improving regional and border connectivity. This includes the first phase of the road construction from Devgarh to the Rajasthan-Gujarat border, costing ₹546 crore. In the border district of Jaisalmer, the widening and strengthening of the Sam-Dhanana road was completed at a cost of ₹110 crore, which is strategically important for both defense and tourism. Also, the Ajmer-Nagaur section of NH-89 (new NH-58) has been upgraded to a two-lane road with paved shoulders at a cost of ₹190 crore, and the Shahpura to Thanagazi section on NH-248A was developed for ₹103 crore.
Economic Implications for Trade and Tourism
During his address at Kayad Vishramsthali, the Prime Minister highlighted that improved road infrastructure acts as a catalyst for the overall development of a region. According to government officials, new road works in Baran and Sawai Madhopur districts, worth ₹434 crore, will provide better market access for local farmers and traders. The enhanced connectivity is also expected to provide a significant boost to Rajasthan's tourism industry by making remote heritage sites more accessible. The Prime Minister noted that when villages are connected by high-quality roads, it leads to better price realization for agricultural produce and reduces logistics costs for businesses.
Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Regional Growth
The Prime Minister mentioned that these road projects are part of a larger development package for Rajasthan totaling ₹17,000 crore. He stated that the current administration is focused on fulfilling the promises of development and ensuring that the benefits of infrastructure reach every citizen. According to the Prime Minister, the 'double engine' government in the state has completed two years of focused governance, prioritizing both heritage preservation and modern infrastructure. The projects launched today are intended to provide long-term benefits by creating jobs and fostering an environment conducive to industrial and commercial expansion across the state.