Infrastructure News This Week #22 | NF World Latest News
NMHC Centre in Gujarat | NH Network growth | Madurai Metro | Ramnath Goenka Marg | Net Zero Emission – Infrastructure News This Week
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Lothal in Gujarat to House National Maritime Heritage Complex Showcasing India’s Rich Maritime Legacy
Lothal, located in Gujarat, is set to become the home of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), a key component of the Sagarmala program initiated by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. With an estimated cost of ₹4,500 crores, this ambitious project aims to establish a cutting-edge facility that presents India’s maritime heritage from ancient to modern times. By incorporating innovative technology and adopting an “edutainment approach,” the complex aspires to become an internationally recognized tourist destination, promoting awareness of the country’s abundant maritime legacy.
Project Progress Review Meeting
Scheduled for tomorrow (July 2), a project progress review meeting will be held at the NMHC site in Lothal to evaluate the advancements made in developing the complex and its various attractions.
Key Features of the NMHC
The NMHC will boast several noteworthy features, including the world’s highest lighthouse museum, providing visitors with a breathtaking panoramic view of the maritime landscape. Moreover, it will house the world’s largest open aquatic gallery, offering a captivating display of diverse marine life and emphasizing the importance of oceanic ecosystems. Additionally, the complex will be home to India’s grandest naval museum, employing captivating exhibits and interactive displays to showcase the evolution and significance of the country’s naval forces.
Promoting International Tourism and Economic Development
The NMHC aims to position itself as one of the world’s largest international tourist destinations, drawing visitors from across the globe. By offering a multitude of attractions and immersive experiences, the complex seeks to boost tourism and contribute to the economic development of the region.
Unique Features and Theme Parks
The complex will include a Lothal mini recreation area, offering insights into the architectural and lifestyle aspects of the Harappan civilization. It will also feature four theme parks—Memorial, Maritime and Navy, Climate, and Adventure and Amusement—providing entertainment and educational experiences centred around different facets of maritime history and culture.
Comprehensive Exploration of Maritime Heritage
Within the complex, fourteen galleries will showcase India’s maritime heritage, spanning from the Harappan era to the present day. Each gallery will offer a comprehensive and engaging exploration of distinct historical periods. Additionally, a dedicated Coastal States Pavilion will celebrate the diverse maritime heritage of India’s states and union territories, highlighting their unique contributions to the country’s rich maritime history.
India’s National Highway Network Witnesses 59% Growth in 9 Years, Says Nitin Gadkari
Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, revealed that India’s national highway length has expanded by approximately 59% in the past nine years. With this growth, India now possesses the world’s second-largest road network, trailing only the United States. Gadkari shared these updates during a press conference held in New Delhi.
Expanding National Highways
Gadkari announced that the total length of national highways increased from 91,287 km in 2013-14 to 145,240 km in 2022-23, reflecting a significant rise of over 59% during this period. He also highlighted the substantial growth of four-lane national highways, which nearly doubled over the past nine years, reaching 44,654 km from the initial length of 18,371 km in 2013-14.
Boost in Toll Collection
The introduction of FASTag, an electronic toll collection system, has resulted in a notable surge in toll collection revenues. Gadkari reported that toll revenues soared from ₹4,770 crore in 2013-14 to ₹41,342 crore in 2022-23. The government aims to further increase toll revenue to ₹1,30,000 crore by 2030.
Reduced Waiting Time at Toll Plazas
Gadkari emphasized the significant reduction in waiting time at toll plazas as a result of these developments. In 2014, the average waiting time at toll plazas was 734 seconds, which has now decreased to 47 seconds in 2023. The ministry aims to further minimize the waiting time to just 30 seconds, providing a smoother travel experience.
Transformative Impact of FASTag
The minister praised the revolutionary impact of FASTag on travel experiences in India. This electronic payment system has eliminated the need for cash transactions at toll plazas, resulting in savings of approximately ₹70,000 crores in fuel expenses caused by waiting time. Gadkari referred to research confirming these savings.
Focus on North East Region and Roadside Facilities
Special emphasis is being placed on expanding the road highway network in the North East region, with projects worth more than ₹2 lakh crore underway. Additionally, 670 roadside facilities are being developed to enhance the travel experience along national highways.
Achievements and Green Initiatives
Gadkari highlighted NHAI’s achievements, including launching an INVIT (Infrastructure Investment Trust) bond issue that received an overwhelming response. NHAI has also set several world records, showcasing its commitment to technological advancements. The ministry has undertaken various green initiatives such as tree transplantation, planting millions of trees, water rejuvenation efforts, and utilizing waste materials in road construction. The introduction of bamboo crash barriers promotes sustainability and employment opportunities.
Vision for Electric Vehicle Adoption
Gadkari unveiled a vision to increase Electric Vehicle adoption over the next five years, aligning with the government’s commitment to clean energy and reduced carbon emissions.
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Madurai Metro Rail Project Gains Momentum with DPR Submission on July 15
The highly anticipated Madurai Metro Rail project is making significant progress, with the Detail Project Report (DPR) set to be submitted on July 15, as revealed by MA Siddique, Managing Director of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL). This ambitious project aims to establish a metro rail network covering a total length of 32 kilometres in Madurai, with a majority of the structure being elevated.
Submission of DPR and Project Commencement
The DPR, which outlines the project’s details, is expected to be submitted to the state government, approved by the Union government, and funded by external agencies. Once these steps are completed, the project will commence, bringing the vision of a metro rail system in Madurai closer to reality.
Consideration for Heritage Structures
In addressing concerns regarding the potential impact on heritage structures, the CMRL director assured that careful consideration had been given to these factors. The construction of underground stations near significant landmarks, such as the Madurai railway junction/Periyar bus stand, Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, and Goripalayam, has been thoughtfully planned to minimize any adverse effects. The renowned car festival of the Meenakshi temple will remain unaffected.
Timeline for Completion
According to Siddique, the elevated line of the Madurai Metro Rail project is estimated to be completed within three years, while the construction of the underground structure is expected to take approximately 4.5 years. This timeline demonstrates the commitment to timely execution and efficient implementation of the project.
Transforming Madurai into a Development Hub
With a budget of Rs 8,500 crore, the Madurai Metro Rail project, announced during the budget session, aims to transform Madurai into a thriving hub of development for the southern region. This crucial transportation network will establish a vital connection from Thirumangalam to Othakadai, contributing to the overall growth and progress of the city.
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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Inaugurates Ramnath Goenka Marg in Noida
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated Ramnath Goenka Marg during his visit to Noida. The 2.2 km long road, previously known as Amaltash Marg, was renamed as a tribute to the founder of The Indian Express newspaper, Ramnath Goenka. The renaming ceremony took place in March, organized by the New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (Noida) governing body.
Significance of Ramnath Goenka Marg
Ramnath Goenka Marg, formerly Amaltash Marg, serves as a crucial road connecting the Delhi-Noida Direct (DND) Flyway with the Sector 12/22 crossing. This road experiences heavy traffic on weekdays due to its proximity to residential colonies and commercial buildings. It is frequently used by commuters travelling from Noida’s Sector 12/22 to Delhi. Key landmarks along the road include the BSNL telephone exchange, Sector 20 Police Station, Noida Stadium crossing, Indian Oil petrol pump, and Rajnigandha factory.
Additional Infrastructure Projects
During his visit, Chief Minister Adityanath also inaugurated various infrastructure projects in the Gautam Buddha Nagar district. These projects include the Parthala flyover in Sector 121, the Advent underpass in Sector 137, Vedvan Park in Sector 78, and others. These developments aim to enhance connectivity and improve amenities for the residents of Noida.
Traffic Advisory
To ensure smooth proceedings during the Chief Minister’s visit, the district administration issued a traffic advisory for Noida and Greater Noida areas. Specific routes were temporarily closed for vehicular movement from 6 am in Noida and 11 am in Greater Noida until one hour after the conclusion of the event.
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Kolkata Metro Installs Solar Power Plants to Reduce Carbon Footprint
In its pursuit of becoming a ‘Net Zero’ carbon emitter by 2030, Indian Railways is actively implementing sustainable initiatives. Kolkata Metro, a part of the railway network, has recently installed solar power plants on rooftops across various locations. These installations are aimed at generating clean energy and reducing the carbon footprint of the metro system.
Solar Power Plants on Kolkata Metro
The Kolkata Metro currently generates 2189.50 Kwp of solar power. This includes 657 Kwp solar power plants on the North-South Corridor, 1519 Kwp solar power plants on the East-West Corridor, and 13.5 Kwp solar plants at Tapan Sinha Memorial Hospital of Metro Railway.
Solar Power Plants at Metro Stations
Solar power plants have been successfully installed at seven metro stations, namely Noapara, Dum Dum, Mahanayak Uttam Kumar, Kavi Subhash, Salt Lake Sector V, Central Park station, and Central Park Depot. These rooftop installations contribute to the generation of renewable energy.
Benefits of Solar Power Plants for Kolkata Metro
The construction of solar power plants has been carried out through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements. Metro railway authorities have provided the rooftop areas, while the solar power developers have handled the entire process of designing, procurement, installation, testing, and commissioning. The plants are operated by the developers, and their performance is monitored through a cloud-based system. Built-in meters and data loggers enable an analysis of the plants’ performance using external computers and smart devices.
Future Plans for Solar Power Generation
In the fiscal year 2023-24, Kolkata Metro aims to increase its solar power generation capacity by 2792 Kwp. This includes installations such as a 500 Kwp capacity plant at Stabling Bay Line Workshop, Central Park Depot, a 92 Kwp capacity plant at Belgachia, a 1400 Kwp capacity plant at Joka Depot, and an 800 Kwp capacity plant at Kavi Subhash Carshed. Additionally, a proposal has been made for a 654 Kwp capacity solar power generation plant at Jessore Road station.
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