Govt says 574 national highway projects behind schedule

India's ambitious drive to build world-class infrastructure is a cornerstone of its economic growth strategy. However, the recent revelation that 574 National Highway projects, valued at a staggering Rs 3.60 lakh crore, are significantly behind schedule highlights persistent challenges in project execution. This issue is not merely about delayed construction; it underscores deeper systemic inefficiencies that impact India's economic potential, governance, and social development.

**The Vision for India's Highways: Background and Historical Context**

India's journey towards a robust road network began earnestly after independence, but major impetus came with the 'Golden Quadrilateral' project in the late 1990s, aimed at connecting major metropolitan cities. Subsequent initiatives like the National Highways Development Project (NHDP) and more recently, the Bharatmala Pariyojana, launched in 2017 with an outlay of Rs 5.35 lakh crore, have aimed to develop approximately 83,677 km of highways by 2022-23 (though this target has been extended). These projects are vital as roads carry about 64.5% of freight and 90% of passenger traffic in India, making them the lifelines of the economy. A well-connected road network reduces logistics costs, enhances market access for agricultural produce, boosts tourism, and facilitates quicker movement of goods and people, directly contributing to GDP growth and regional development.

**The Current Roadblock: A Deep Dive into Delays**

The current situation, with 574 projects delayed, often by over a year, points to critical bottlenecks. The primary culprits identified are issues related to land acquisition and obtaining various clearances. Land acquisition in India is a complex, often contentious process. Despite the enactment of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (LARR Act), which aimed to streamline the process and ensure fair compensation, its implementation has faced hurdles. High compensation costs, social impact assessments, and resistance from landowners often prolong the process. Similarly, environmental and forest clearances, mandated by laws like the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, involve multiple agencies and stringent procedures, leading to significant time lags. Other factors contributing to delays include utility shifting, contractor performance issues, law and order problems, and funding constraints.

**Who's Driving and Who's Stuck? Key Stakeholders**

Several key stakeholders are involved. The **Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)** is the nodal ministry responsible for policy formulation and overall oversight. The **National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)** is the primary implementing agency, responsible for development, maintenance, and management of National Highways. **State governments** play a crucial role, particularly in facilitating land acquisition and providing necessary local clearances, highlighting the federal nature of infrastructure development. **Local bodies** and district administrations are vital for on-ground coordination. **Contractors** are responsible for execution, and their efficiency directly impacts project timelines. Most importantly, **landowners and affected communities** are critical stakeholders whose cooperation is essential for project success. Environmental agencies, financial institutions, and even judicial bodies (in cases of disputes) also play their part.

**Why This Matters Immensely for India**

These delays have profound implications for India. **Economically**, they lead to cost overruns (Rs 3.60 lakh crore is a massive drain), delay the realization of economic benefits such as reduced logistics costs and improved market access, and potentially deter future investments. The 'ease of doing business' index, which India aims to improve, is directly impacted by efficient infrastructure delivery. **Socially**, delayed projects mean prolonged disruption for local communities, delayed access to better connectivity, and continued safety hazards on incomplete stretches. While the article notes a reduction in road accident fatalities overall, incomplete projects can pose specific risks. **Politically and in terms of governance**, such delays reflect poorly on administrative efficiency and accountability, underscoring challenges in inter-governmental coordination between central and state agencies.

**Legal and Policy Framework**

Several constitutional provisions and acts are relevant. **Article 246** of the Indian Constitution, read with the **Seventh Schedule**, delineates legislative powers. 'National Highways' fall under the Union List (List I, Entry 23), giving the central government primary legislative and executive authority. However, 'Roads' (other than National Highways) fall under the State List (List II, Entry 13), necessitating close cooperation. The **LARR Act, 2013**, is central to land acquisition, emphasizing fair compensation and rehabilitation. The **Environment (Protection) Act, 1986**, and the **Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980**, govern environmental and forest clearances, respectively. Principles enshrined in the **Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)**, such as **Article 38** (State to secure a social order for the promotion of welfare of the people) and **Article 39** (State to direct its policy towards securing adequate means of livelihood), implicitly support infrastructure development for public welfare and economic justice.

**Navigating the Future**

The government's stated commitment to speeding up land acquisition and clearances is a positive sign. This involves better coordination with state governments, leveraging technology for transparent land records, and proactive engagement with affected communities. The future of India's infrastructure development hinges on robust project monitoring, efficient dispute resolution mechanisms, and a greater emphasis on public-private partnerships (PPPs) with clear risk-sharing frameworks. While challenges persist, sustained political will and administrative reforms are crucial to ensure that India's ambitious highway network translates into tangible economic and social benefits, rather than becoming a symbol of delayed potential.