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Nitin Gadkari inaugurates Chintan Shivir 2026; focus on safer, greener and future-ready road infrastructure
Pooja Srivastava
Anytime News Network
: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari inaugurated Chintan Shivir 2026 – A National Conclave on Highway Infrastructure at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, setting the agenda for stronger, safer and future-ready highway infrastructure.
Held under the theme “Gatishakti se Pragati”, the two-day conclave brings together State Transport and PWD Ministers, senior officials, implementing agencies and other stakeholders to deliberate on challenges surrounding highway development and project delivery.
Planning Before Construction
Gadkari emphasised that better preparation at the Detailed Project Report (DPR) stage is essential for timely and cost-effective highway projects. Proper surveys, alignment planning, land acquisition, utility shifting and statutory clearances can help reduce delays and prevent cost escalation.
He called for greater exchange of successful practices among States so that proven solutions can be evaluated and replicated wherever suitable.
Safety at the Core
The Minister stressed that road safety must be integrated into highway planning and design from the very beginning. Identification of accident-prone locations and timely safety interventions during planning and construction, he said, can contribute to safer roads and fewer accidents.
Green Roads, Sustainable Future
Environmental responsibility is also central to the conclave. The agenda includes environment-friendly construction practices, recycled materials and appropriate measures for environmental and wildlife protection.
During the inaugural session, a document on Environment & Wildlife Mitigation Measures was launched along with a BRICS Compendium on Perspectives in Sustainable Transport, bringing an international perspective to sustainable mobility.
Technology Drives Toll Reform
Gadkari highlighted technology-led reforms including the FASTag Annual Pass and Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) system, aimed at improving tolling efficiency, reducing congestion and enhancing the highway user experience.
The conclave will deliberate on PM GatiShakti and integrated planning, land acquisition, Model Concession Agreements, safe and green highways, road safety, toll reforms, quality assurance and project monitoring.
Calling for collective action, Gadkari urged States and implementing agencies to adopt innovation, research and cost-effective technologies to build safer, high-quality and future-ready highways, strengthening connectivity and supporting faster economic growth in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat.
