The Centre last week approved the implementation of the fourth phase of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV) for the construction of 62,500 km of new roads. These roads are meant to provide all-weather connectivity to 25,000 villages. Tagging a hefty fund of Rs 70,125 crore, this program will provide year-round road connectivity, which in turn can potentially boost trade and the standards of living in the rural areas.
The PMGSY-IV scheme will be financed on a cost-sharing basis amongst the Central and the State governments at a total cost of Rs 70,125 crore. This undertaking plans to achieve construction of 62,500 kilometers of all-weather road networks and access to vital connectors to different sections of the region. The central share is Rs 49,087.50 crore and the state share is Rs 21,037.50 crore.
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Target areas and priorities
The scheme will cover unconnected pieces of habitations with a minimum population of 500 in plain areas, a population of 250 or more in north-eastern and hilly states/union territories, special category areas such as Tribal Schedule V region, Aspirational District/Block and desert areas, and one hundred and more in districts with left-wing extremism, to the census of 2011.
PMGSY-IV aims to bridge rural disparities by transforming rural connectivity. This initiative will provide access to 25,000 isolated settlements through all-weather roads, significantly improving the social and economic prospects of rural communities. These new roads will connect remote villages with critical infrastructure such as education, healthcare, markets and development zones, thereby empowering rural communities and providing opportunities for development.
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Innovative and sustainable practices
The system is committed to adopting global standards and technological innovations. PMGSY-IV includes advanced methods like cold mix technology, plastic waste, panel-filled cement concrete, cell-filled concrete, full intensive recycling, and will include recycling of construction waste like fly ash and metal slag. These practices only Improve quality of processes but also achieve sustainable processes.
Efficient implementation
Routes for encounters will be arranged through the PM Motion Power Portal, which will facilitate the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs). Adopting a comprehensive and collaborative approach, PMGSY-IV will deliver a transformational impact, ensuring that the benefits of connectivity reach even the remotest parts of India.