The Union Cabinet has recently approved the fourth phase of the PM Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV), aiming to enhance rural connectivity across India.
About the PM Gram Sadak Yojana-IV:
- Aim: To provide connectivity to 25,000 unconnected villages. Construction of 62,500 km of all-weather roads.
- Full form: Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
Approval and Financial Outlay:
- It is approved for the financial years 2024-25 to 2028-29.
- Total outlay: ₹70,125 crore, with different proportion for central and state.
Key Features and Objectives:
- Targeted Areas:
- Villages with a population of 500+ in plains.
- Villages with a population of 250+ in North Eastern (NE) and Hill States/UTs, special category areas (e.g., Tribal Schedule V, Aspirational Districts/Blocks, Desert areas).
- Villages with a population of 100+ in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected districts.
- Infrastructure Enhancements:
- Construction and upgrading of bridges along new connectivity roads.
- Integration with existing infrastructure to enhance connectivity with educational institutions, health facilities, markets, and growth centres.
Significance of PMGSY-IV
- Socio-Economic Impact:
- Improved access to education, health services, and markets.
- Facilitation of socio-economic development in remote rural areas.
- Quality and Technology:
- Incorporation of international best practices and technologies such as Cold Mix Technology and Waste Plastic use.
- Utilization of construction waste materials like Fly Ash and Steel Slag.
- Planning and Coordination: Systematic Road alignment planning through the PM Gati Shakti Portal.
Previous Phases of PMGSY
- PMGSY-I (2000): Launched to provide all-weather access to eligible unconnected habitations.
- PMGSY-II (2013): Aimed to upgrade 50,000 km of roads in various states and UTs.
- PMGSY-III (2019): Focused on consolidating 1,25,000 km of roads connecting habitations to key infrastructure such as Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), higher secondary schools, and hospitals.
Challenges Faced
- Delays due to logistical challenges and non-timely fund releases by states.
- Non-compliance with mandatory quality control lab provisions.
- Issues related to tendering, contractors, and post-construction maintenance.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is PMGSY-IV?
PMGSY-IV is the fourth phase of the PM Gram Sadak Yojana focused on constructing 62,500 km of rural roads for better connectivity.
What is the financial outlay for PMGSY-IV?
PMGSY-IV has a total outlay of ₹70,125 crore for the financial years 2024-2029.
Which areas are prioritized in PMGSY-IV?
Villages with 500+ population in plains and 250+ population in NE, hill states, and special areas are prioritized.
What technologies are incorporated in PMGSY-IV?
Technologies like Cold Mix Technology, Waste Plastic, Fly Ash, and Steel Slag are used for sustainable road construction.
What are the challenges faced by previous PMGSY phases?
Previous phases faced delays due to logistical issues, state funding delays, and non-compliance with quality control.