The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced an ambitious plan to construct 74 new tunnels across India, covering a total distance of 273 kilometres. This massive project, with an estimated investment of ₹1 lakh crore, is aimed at significantly enhancing the country’s highway infrastructure over the coming years.Addressing the Tunnelling India conference, organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) on Tuesday, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted the government’s focus on upgrading technology and implementing cost-effective strategies. These measures are essential to navigate the complex and varied terrain of India while ensuring that high-quality standards are maintained throughout the construction process.Gadkari emphasised the importance of identifying and adopting the most efficient technologies that offer both cost savings and quality assurance. He also underscored the necessity of incorporating global best practices in infrastructure development to achieve these goals. Additionally, he mentioned that the government will be conducting regular performance audits of all ongoing projects to ensure they meet the required benchmarks.The minister noted that substantial progress has already been made, with 35 tunnels, spanning 49 kilometres, completed at a cost of ₹15,000 crore. Furthermore, 69 additional tunnels, covering 134 kilometres, are currently under construction, with a projected cost of ₹40,000 crore.