Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that providing high-quality infrastructure while maintaining cost-effectiveness remains one of the government's foremost priorities.
Addressing the fourth edition of the Tunnels and Bridges Conference 2026 in New Delhi, Gadkari stressed that there can be no compromise on the quality of infrastructure being developed across the country.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Gadkari stressed quality and cost-effectiveness in infrastructure development.
No compromise should be made on infrastructure quality.
Strong DPRs and geological data are essential. Poor project reports can contribute to delays and cost overruns.
Himalayan construction faces landslides, extreme weather and logistical challenges.
Minister highlighted precast construction and advanced TBMs.
Better monitoring, surveys and early-warning systems were recommended.
The minister underlined the importance of preparing detailed and robust Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) before construction begins. According to him, better project planning is essential for developing infrastructure that meets international standards.Gadkari pointed to poor-quality DPRs and inadequate geological information as major factors behind cost overruns, project delays and safety concerns.
He also highlighted the particular challenges involved in constructing tunnels and bridges in the Himalayan region, where projects face difficult geological conditions, landslides, extreme weather, natural hazards and logistical constraints.
The minister said construction in Himalayan terrain is significantly more challenging than work in relatively stable black rock regions, making detailed surveys and continuous monitoring especially important.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
Large infrastructure projects can face significant financial and safety risks when planning and geological assessments are inadequate. Gadkari's emphasis on better DPRs, advanced construction technology and early-warning systems is particularly relevant for projects in the Himalayas, where engineering failures can have serious consequences.
Gadkari emphasised the need to adopt modern construction techniques, including precast methodology and advanced Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), to improve efficiency and safety.He also called for better surveying and monitoring systems along with early-warning mechanisms that can help identify potential failures before they become major safety risks.
The focus on technology and stronger project preparation comes as India continues to expand its road, tunnel and bridge infrastructure across difficult geographical regions.
