The Network Planning Group (NPG) reviewed five infrastructure projects proposed by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) and the Ministry of Railways (Moor), focusing on enhancing multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (PMGS NMP). The projects include the Dwarka Tunnel, a 6-lane underground tunnel, the Patna-Purina 6-lane expressway, a four-lane National Highway-62 stretch, a new railway line between Badi and Ghazali, and a doubling between Canals and Okha Stations.
These projects aim to accelerate regional development by reducing travel time, improving cargo movement, and delivering socio-economic benefits. The Dwarka Tunnel will strengthen connectivity between NH-8 and the Dwarka Expressway, while the Patna-Purina Expressway will establish a high-speed intermodal connectivity corridor between Patna and Purina. The doubling between Canals and Okha Stations will improve passenger movement and facilitate seamless freight movement across Gujarat and beyond. Link:– (Road transport)
Infrastructure Planning for Multimodal Efficiency
The Network Planning Group (NPG), operating under the PM Gati Shakti initiative, recently reviewed five pivotal infrastructure proposals, spanning across rail and road sectors. This review is part of the broader effort to enhance multimodal connectivity across India. These projects are evaluated to ensure alignment with the National Master Plan for Infrastructure, which aims to streamline planning, execution, and operational efficiency of logistics networks.
Rail Connectivity Enhancements
Three of the five projects under review involve the Indian Railways, targeting increased freight capacity and improved regional access. These include strategic railway line expansions and upgradation of important goods corridors to reduce congestion and improve turnaround times. The rail proposals are designed to support industrial hubs and improve last-mile delivery for cargo. Similar developments were recently seen in ((Bihar’s Rail Infra) showcasing the government’s commitment to railway modernization.
Road Infrastructure Expansion
Two major highway projects also featured in the review. These initiatives will bolster inter-state connectivity, reduce travel time, and support economic corridors that link remote regions to metro cities. The road projects are aligned with the Baramulla Pariyojana, a flagship scheme for highway development. Notably, a focus has been placed on decongesting urban freight routes and enhancing connectivity to multi-modal logistics parks (MMLPs).
Emphasis on Logistics Cost Reduction
One of the NPG’s primary objectives is to reduce India’s logistics cost from the current 13-14% of GDP to under 10%. Through synchronized infrastructure rollout across ministries—rail, road, ports, and aviation—the Gati Shakti framework seeks to eliminate redundancy and accelerate delivery timelines. The reviewed projects are expected to significantly contribute to this goal, especially in reducing transit delays for bulk and containerized goods. For similar cost-reduction strategies.
Following the NPG review, the proposed projects will be forwarded for final approval and budgeting under the Ministry of Finance and line ministries. These proposals are not only infrastructural in nature but are also linked with regional development, employment generation, and sustainability. Officials emphasized the importance of digital project monitoring tools to ensure transparency and timely execution. The review showcases the government’s commitment to holistic, future-ready infrastructure, emphasizing network coherence, logistics efficiency, and fast-tracked project delivery—cornerstones of India’s ambition to become a global manufacturing and trade hub.
q1. What is the Network Planning Group (NPG)?
The NPG is an inter-ministerial body under PM Gati Shakti that reviews and coordinates infrastructure projects for multimodal connectivity across India.
q2. What was the focus of the recent NPG meeting?
The NPG reviewed five major rail and road infrastructure projects to ensure integrated planning and faster execution.
q3. Which sectors were covered in the reviewed projects?
The reviewed projects included both railways and highways aimed at improving logistics, connectivity, and regional development.
q4. Why is multimodal connectivity important in infrastructure planning?
Multimodal connectivity helps reduce travel time, cut logistics costs, and ensures seamless movement of goods and people across various transport modes.
q5. How does the NPG contribute to PM Gati Shakti?
The NPG evaluates projects for synergy across ministries, ensuring they align with the broader goals of the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan.
