Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various road projects costing Rs 2,367 crore in Jabalpur during a programme held at Veterinary college ground, on Tuesday. Addressing a huge gathering, Gadkari emphasized four essential elements for development i.e. Water, Power, Transport and Communication. Drawing a comparison with the United States, he stated that America is prosperous not because of its wealth, but due to its well-maintained roads. He expressed the importance of road infrastructure, anticipating a boost in tourism and commerce with the construction of better roads and resorts. He highlighted that better roads would increase tourist footfall and contribute to per capita income. Affirming his commitment to the welfare of farmers, Gadkari, who identifies himself as a farmer, said until villages, poor, laborers and farmers prosper, the nation cannot progress. He said his ministry has not only constructed roads, but also ponds for the storage of water and it will also lead to water conservation. There is a necessity to develop smart cities with smart villages for making India self-reliant India and roads play an important role in it.

 

He said it is Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s dream to make India third-largest economy in the world with a GDP of 5 trillion dollar and it is possible through development of agriculture. “Our Ministry takes the initiative that farmers will no longer become just Anna Data (food providers) but Urja Data (energy provider). “I will provide as much electricity as Jabalpur requires. We will convert biomass into energy crops. CNG is being made from biomass”. Gadkari said we have asked tractor and car companies to make hydrogen tractors and cars. I also have a hydrogen car. He said gravel and mud are required for construction of roads. We will build big water storage tanks next to the roads and give it to the government, in lieu of the gravel. This will lead to water conservation. With this, farmers will also be able to get needed water.

 

The Road Transport and Highways Minister further said that there is ample coal in Madhya Pradesh. He suggested Chief Minister, Dr Mohan Yadav to make methanol from coal. Vehicles will run with this. He said if the state government has an import effective, pollution free policy, then many works will be done from our side. We will undertake works worth Rs 3 lakh crore in Madhya Pradesh. In the coming days, Madhya Pradesh will come among the first three progressive states, he added. Addressing environmental concerns, he identified pollution as a significant issue in the country. Gadkari said he asked the MD of JCB company to make JCB on hydrogen, now it is being transported to America. Gadkari spoke about the improved highways, reducing travel time and creating employment opportunities. He stressed the importance of working on alternative fuels to combat pollution and foster economic growth. Those also present on the occasion were Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, BJP State President V D Sharma, Union Ministers Virendra Kumar Khatik, Faggan Singh Kulaste, State Ministers Rakesh Singh and Prahlad Singh Patel along with MLAs and other public representatives.