New highway projects will cut Shirdi-Nashik travel time, says Gadkari

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said as part of the Bharatmala Pariyojna the government is carrying out the 4-laning of the Sinnar-Shirdi section of NH-160, including the construction of the Sinnar Bypass, in Maharashtra.

In a series of tweets he said this transformative project holds immense social significance, as it will serve as a dedicated route (Marg) for Sai Baba devotees making their pilgrimage to Shirdi on foot. The highway will also reduce traffic congestion and act as an economic catalyst, propelling rapid development in the surrounding areas, he said.

Gadkari said one of the primary objectives of this initiative is to substantially reduce travel time between Shirdi and Nashik/Trimbakeshwar, two major religious towns in Maharashtra.

“Furthermore, in line with our steadfast commitment to sustainability, the project incorporates various noteworthy techniques to minimize the carbon footprint,” the minister explained.

Plastic waste is being used for building service roads. Besides, the application of Cement Treated Base and Cement Treated Sub Base as well as the use of ‘RAP’ (Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement) was being made in the construction of the road’s surface, Gadkari disclosed.

“Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi  our unwavering commitment lies in creating a more efficient and eco-friendly mobility network while fostering the holistic development of the region,” the minister added.