New Delhi : The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (SSNNL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to streamline approvals for national highway, canal and pipeline crossings across Gujarat. The agreement is aimed at strengthening coordination between the two agencies, facilitating faster approvals and ensuring smoother execution of national highway and irrigation infrastructure projects in the state. The MoU was signed by the Regional Officer-Gandhinagar, NHAI and the Chief Engineer (QC, Tech. & CPC), SSNNL in the presence of SSNNL directors and other officials at Gandhinagar.
Mutual waiver of fees and charges
A key provision of the agreement is the mutual waiver of various fees, charges and other levies by NHAI and SSNNL for national highway, canal and pipeline crossings covered under the MoU. According to the agreement, the provision is expected to reduce project costs and eliminate procedural delays associated with approvals. It is also aimed at ensuring more efficient utilisation of public funds and supporting faster infrastructure development.
Framework for faster approvals
The MoU provides for early sharing of project information between the agencies and the adoption of standardised engineering practices. It also defines responsibilities for the construction and maintenance of crossing structures. The framework is intended to improve project planning and coordination while ensuring quality standards and operational efficiency during project execution.
Focus on integrated infrastructure planning
The agreement marks a step towards greater coordination between NHAI and SSNNL in planning and implementing highway and irrigation infrastructure in Gujarat. The collaborative framework is expected to support faster implementation of national highway and irrigation projects while improving execution timelines and reducing associated financial implications.
NHAI said the initiative is part of its efforts to strengthen coordination with other government agencies and facilitate efficient infrastructure development. The framework is also aimed at supporting connectivity and infrastructure-led economic growth in Gujarat.