Gujarat Highways: Highway infrastructure will be better in Gujarat, many facilities will be available on national highways
Gujarat Highways: This is an important and visionary initiative towards bringing India's national highway network at par with international standards. Wayside Amenities (WSA) play a major role in providing safety, convenience and comfort to travellers, and this will not only benefit travellers but will also boost local employment and economic activities.
The central government has taken another important decision to increase public facilities by strengthening the infrastructure on the national highways and expressways of the country.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said that the construction of 501 Wayside Amenities (WSA) has been approved in the country, out of which 56 Wayside Amenities are in Gujarat.
This approval will strengthen the infrastructure of Gujarat Highway and provide more facilities to the people. There will be washrooms, charging stations, parking, food and clean water facilities on many highways in Gujarat every 40-60 km. Let's see how the state will benefit from its construction.
The Union Minister informed that currently 501 WSSAs have been sanctioned, of which 94 are still ongoing. The government aims to build more than 700 WSAs by 2028 to 2029. Out of 56 road facilities in Gujarat, 9 are still operational.
What wayside amenities will be provided?
Wayside amenities mean creating infrastructure for essential facilities on major highways. These WSAs will have parking, charging stations, good food and drinking water facilities, toilets and medical facilities, be it on highways or expressways. Water conservation areas will be created by the government at a distance of 40 to 60 kilometers.
Local traders and artisans will get a boost
Separate areas will be created in these WSAs to encourage local artisans and small traders. Facilities will also be provided for the sale of local products like Gram Haat.
The construction of these facilities will also increase employment opportunities on the road infrastructure of Gujarat, which is being built under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.