What is PM GatiShakti?
PM GatiShakti is a national master plan initiated by the Indian government in 2021. It serves as a digital platform that integrates the efforts of 16 different ministries involved in infrastructure development. These ministries include Railways, Roadways, and Shipping, enabling them to collaborate efficiently on various infrastructure projects.
Main Goal of PM GatiShakti
The primary aim of PM GatiShakti is to establish a seamless and efficient network of transportation and logistics infrastructure across India. This initiative focuses on enhancing roads, railways, ports, and airports, ensuring they work in unison to facilitate the swift movement of people and goods.
How PM GatiShakti Works
- Digital Platform: It functions as a central hub where all ministries can share information, coordinate plans, and monitor project progress.
- Geospatial Technology: Advanced mapping and satellite imagery are employed for effective project planning, minimizing disruptions and optimizing land use.
- Network Planning Group (NPG): A high-powered group consisting of officials from various ministries evaluates and approves infrastructure projects.
Key Benefits of PM GatiShakti
- Improved Connectivity: It enhances connections between various transport modes, making transitions smoother (e.g., from trains to buses or trucks to ships).
- Reduced Travel Time: Better infrastructure reduces travel time for both people and goods.
- Lower Logistics Costs: Increased efficiency and coordination lead to reduced transportation costs, boosting business competitiveness.
- Faster Project Implementation: The initiative streamlines the approval process, minimizing delays and ensuring quicker project completion.
- Economic Growth: Enhanced infrastructure fosters economic growth and job creation.
Examples of Projects under PM GatiShakti
PM GatiShakti encompasses various projects, including:
- Bharatmala Pariyojana: A comprehensive road and highway development initiative.
- Sagarmala Project: A program aimed at modernizing and expanding India's ports and coastal infrastructure.
- Inland Waterways Development: Enhancing rivers and canals for navigation and transport.
- UDAN Scheme: An initiative to improve regional air connectivity.
- Logistics Parks: Establishing dedicated zones for warehousing and logistics operations.
Addressing Past Challenges
Historically, various departments operated in isolation, causing issues such as repeated road excavations for different utilities. PM GatiShakti tackles this problem through:
- Integrated Planning: Ensuring all stakeholders collaborate to plan and execute projects cohesively.
- Streamlined Approvals: Reducing bureaucratic obstacles to expedite the approval process.
- Holistic Approach: Taking into account the needs of all stakeholders to design and execute projects with a unified vision.
Progress as of October 2024
As of October 2024, 208 significant infrastructure projects across various ministries, including roads and railways, valued at ₹15.39 lakh crore, have been recommended for approval under the PM GatiShakti initiative. These projects were proposed by the Network Planning Group established under this initiative.
Synopsis
PM GatiShakti is a transformative initiative that is redefining India’s approach to infrastructure development. By promoting integrated planning, utilizing technology, and streamlining approvals, it aspires to create a world-class infrastructure network that bolsters economic growth, enhances connectivity, and elevates the quality of life for citizens. With a focus on efficiency, coordination, and sustainability, PM GatiShakti is paving the way for a stronger and more connected India.
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