Arunachal Pradesh: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, has announced a significant allocation of Rs. 6728.33 crore for the construction of 8 stretches on NH-913, also known as the Frontier Highway, in Arunachal Pradesh. These stretches, spanning 305.50 kilometers, will be developed as Intermediate Lane Roads under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode.
In a statement, Shri Nitin Gadkari highlighted the strategic importance of this development, emphasizing its role in enhancing connectivity to border areas and driving socio-economic progress in the region. The construction of the Frontier Highway is expected to mitigate migration from border regions by promoting reverse habitation towards Arunachal Pradesh’s frontier areas.
Furthermore, these stretches of the frontier highway will establish crucial road infrastructure linking significant river basins, facilitating the development of numerous hydropower projects across the state. Shri Gadkari underscored the potential of this predominantly greenfield road to connect sparsely populated Upper Arunachal areas, making them accessible for tourism. He projected increased traffic on the route due to burgeoning tourism in the future.
The allocation of funds for the Frontier Highway in Arunachal Pradesh aligns with the government’s vision to bolster infrastructure development in border regions, enhance connectivity, and spur economic growth. Additionally, it reflects the commitment to promoting sustainable tourism and harnessing the untapped potential of the state’s natural landscapes.
The construction of the Frontier Highway is poised to unlock new opportunities for socio-economic development, promote regional connectivity, and facilitate the harnessing of Arunachal Pradesh’s abundant hydropower resources. As work progresses on these crucial road stretches, they are expected to play a pivotal role in driving inclusive growth and prosperity in the region.