Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Monday conducted a detailed review of National Highway projects in Karnataka and Kerala, emphasising strict quality standards, timely execution and preparedness ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.
The review meeting, held in New Delhi, was attended by Ministers of State Harsh Malhotra and Ajay Tamta, along with senior officials from the National Highways Authority of India, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, and project contractors.
During the meeting, Gadkari assessed the progress and maintenance quality of an extensive highway network covering 7,926 km in Karnataka and 1,513 km across 61 projects in Kerala. The review was initiated in response to feedback received through media and social media regarding road conditions and project execution.
The minister underscored the need to accelerate on-ground work while ensuring strict adherence to quality benchmarks. He called for the adoption of advanced construction technologies and modern practices to improve durability, enhance riding comfort and ensure seamless connectivity across major highway corridors.
Gadkari also directed officials to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and ensure that infrastructure development is sustainable and efficient. He stressed that improving asset longevity and maintaining consistent quality standards should remain a priority across all projects.
With the monsoon season approaching, the minister issued clear instructions for comprehensive preparedness. He highlighted the importance of preventive measures such as effective drainage systems, slope protection and robust maintenance strategies to avoid waterlogging, structural damage and traffic disruptions.
Officials were also asked to establish quick-response systems to handle emergencies during heavy rains and ensure commuter safety. The focus, Gadkari said, should be on minimising disruptions while maintaining smooth traffic flow across the highway network.
