Lockdown 2.0: Our targets for project award won't decline, says Gadkari
The central government has given relaxations to certain sectors to restart work amid the extended lockdown . In an interview to Megha Manchanda, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari says he is optimistic about the sector meeting its project execution target in a time-bound manner. Edited excerpts: The government has decided to allow highway construction in pockets with zero or minimal Covid-19 cases. How do you plan to ensure safety, social distancing, hygiene, and food and shelter for migrant labourers? My ministry has made it very clear that all precautions required should be taken by all concerned — be it on project sites or any other place. Which projects will be given priority, when it comes to starting construction? I have asked the road ministry, NHAI (National Highways Authority of India), and NHIDCL (National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation) to grant the approvals, and complete other desk work. Read More