Completion of Bharatmala project to pare need of building highways: Gadkari

NHAI is looking at developing a system for capturing returns on appreciation in land value along developed national highways projects, said the Union Minister

One of the most visible face of the Narendra Modi government, Union minister for road transport, highways and micro, small and medium enterprises Nitin Gadkari is a man of action. Lately, however, the National Highways Authority of India, which is overseen by his ministry, is facing flak for being over leveraged. In an interview with Megha Manchanda & Jyoti Mukul, the minister allays fears and says asset monetisation will be the main source of funding for NHAI. Edited Excerpts:

How far has the economic slowdown impacted the highway sector? Is the per day road construction target of 45 km on