While nearly 10,000 kms of national highways are expected to be approved in 2016-17, additional 50,000 kms of state highways will also be taken-up for upgradation as national highways. The total outlay for infrastructure in budgetary estimates 2016-17 stands at Rs 221,246 crore.
The government intends to enact necessary amendments in the Motor Vehicles Act and open-up the road transport sector in the passenger segment. An enabling eco-system will be provided for the states which will have the choice of adopting the new legal framework. Entrepreneurs will be able to operate buses on various routes, subject to certain efficiency and safety norms. This will benefit the poor and middle class, encourage new investment, promote start up entrepreneurs and create new jobs. This is a major reform measure.
“We are planning to develop new greenfield ports both in the eastern and western coasts of the country. The work on the National Waterways is also being expedited Rs 800 crore has been provided for these initiatives,” said the Finance Minister. In civil aviation sector, Airport Authority of India, in partnership with state governments, will revive un-served and underserved airstrips.
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