Bhopal: The Central Government has approved two major highway projects worth ₹4,415.60 crore in Madhya Pradesh, marking a significant boost to the state’s infrastructure development. The projects, cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), will cover 233.653 km of national highways across Betul, Khandwa, Khargone, and Barwani districts.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari for approving the projects, stating that the “double-engine government” is accelerating development in the state.
Two Major Highway Projects Approved Under CCEA
The approved infrastructure projects include upgrades and expansion of key national highway corridors:
NH-347B Hivarkhedi–Roshni–Ashapur–Rudhi Section
- Length: 125.01 km
- Upgrade: Intermediate lane to two-lane with paved shoulders
NH-347B Deshgaon–Julwania Section
- Length: 108.643 km
- Development mode: Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM)
- Upgrade: Two-lane to four-lane highway
- Includes 16.20 km greenfield bypass in Khargone district
The bypass is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion in urban areas.
Boost to Tribal and Industrial Development
According to the state government, the highway corridor will enhance connectivity across key economic and social zones.
Key benefits include:
- Improved access to textile clusters and industrial parks
- Connectivity to two mega food parks
- Linkage to super thermal power plants
- Support for six major economic hubs
The project is also expected to benefit aspirational districts like Khandwa and Barwani, along with tribal-dominated regions of Betul, Khandwa, and Khargone.
Stronger Logistics and Transport Network
The upgraded highway system will integrate major transport infrastructure across the region.
Connectivity improvements:
- Linkage to two railway stations
- Access to two airports
- Connection with a multi-modal logistics park (MMLP)
Officials said this will improve freight movement, reduce travel time, and enhance supply chain efficiency.
Economic Growth and Employment Opportunities
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the projects will generate new employment opportunities and strengthen economic activity in tribal regions.
Expected outcomes:
- Growth in local employment
- Expansion of trade and industrial activity
- Boost to agriculture and tourism sectors
- Improved regional mobility and infrastructure access
He added that the highway projects will accelerate development in the south-western region of Madhya Pradesh.
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