Convert COVID-19 into an opportunity: Gadkari

Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways and MSME, Shri Nitin Gadkari said that India needs renewed focus on infrastructure in the wake of the damage caused by COVID-19. He also stated that talks have been initiated with state governments to re-start highway construction projects where migrant labourers can be gainfully employed and for facilitating safe return of migrant labourers, an estimated 20 lakh of whom are in shelters pan-India. At the same time the minister reiterated that employment needs to be generated while following all norms, including social distancing and sanitisation to prevent COVID-19.

.”As I have said and believe, we can turn any problem into opportunity, we need to focus on highways building with renewed vigour…Highways sector has faced much obstacles due to coronavirus. In coming years we will have to give the highest priority to the infrastructure sector. To accelerate the economy, infrastructure is needed,” Gadkari told reporters. A committee has already been set up to boost the highways sector, the minister added.

He also urged companies to come forward for setting up manufacturing hubs and clusters along the highway to boost economic growth.