Karnataka's Ambitious 'Pragathi Patha': A New Era for Rural Roads

Karnataka's Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge announced the ambitious plan to complete all 7,110 km of rural roads under the 'Pragathi Patha' scheme within the next 1.5 years. This project aims to build the country's largest rural road network at a cost of Rs 5,180 crore.

However, the Asian Development Bank has raised objections to 293 roads due to environmental concerns and right-of-way issues. Despite this, Karnataka has prepared detailed project reports for 999 roads, with 573 ready for tenders.

Minister Kharge emphasized that the project is progressing as per guidelines and addressed concerns by stating that the roads are longstanding and motorable, aiming to conclude construction within the designated timeframe.