Nitin Gadkari’s Bold Move: 25 Expressways Under Construction, Logistics Revolution Ahead

In a major push towards transforming India’s road infrastructure, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced that 25 greenfield expressways spanning 10,000 kilometers are currently under construction across the country. With an estimated investment of ₹6 lakh crore, this large-scale project is set to significantly revolutionize transportation and logistics efficiency in India.

Speaking at the 120th Annual Session of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gadkari outlined that the expressway and economic corridor developments have already contributed to reducing India’s logistics costs from 16% of GDP to 10%. Furthermore, he projected that logistics costs would further decline to 9% by December 2025, making Indian businesses more competitive internationally. For perspective, logistics costs stand at approximately 12% in the US and Europe and 8-10% in China.

The minister also highlighted progress on strategically vital infrastructure projects such as the Zojila Tunnel in the Himalayas, noting it is 75-80% complete and will enhance all-weather connectivity for the Ladakh region, improving nationwide mobility.

Gadkari emphasized the broader economic impact of these infrastructure investments, linking them with India’s ambitions to become the world’s largest automobile manufacturer within five years. The Indian automobile sector, presently valued at ₹22 lakh crore, employs around 4 lakh youth and is a major contributor to the country’s GST revenue.

Addressing environmental concerns, Gadkari called for accelerated adoption of clean energy and biofuels to reduce India’s substantial fossil fuel import bill of ₹22 lakh crore annually. He cited ethanol production from corn as a success story, helping farmers earn ₹45,000 crore extra.

Key Highlights:

Government is building 25 greenfield expressways totaling 10,000 km at a cost of ₹6 lakh crore.

Logistics costs have dropped from 16% to 10% of GDP, expected to reduce further to 9% by December 2025.

The Zojila Tunnel, a strategic all-weather high-altitude tunnel, is nearing completion.

India aims to become the world’s largest automobile industry by 2030, with the sector’s current valuation at ₹22 lakh crore.

Automobile industry provides jobs to approximately 4 lakh youths and contributes the highest GST collections.

India’s fossil fuel import bill is ₹22 lakh crore annually; focus on clean energy transition is critical.

Farmers benefiting from ethanol production from corn have gained ₹45,000 crore.

This massive infrastructure undertaking is poised to enhance India’s economic competitiveness, connectivity, and sustainable growth trajectory in the coming years.

Sources: Economic Times, Moneycontrol, Deccan Herald, Business Standard, PHDCCI Annual Session