New Delhi : Union Minister Nitin Gadkari addressed the 84th Annual Session of the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) in the presence of Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, PWD Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, IRC President Prof. Manoranjan Parida, and senior officials in Bhubaneswar today.
Shri Gadkari highlighted that India is transitioning from a fuel-importing to a fuel-exporting nation, driven by the growing production and use of ethanol, methanol, bio-LNG, CNG, and green hydrogen. He emphasized the government’s strong commitment to road safety, focusing on advanced engineering standards, intelligent transport systems, and awareness initiatives to ensure safer and more efficient mobility.
Underscoring the crucial role of road engineers, the Union minister said their precision and innovation are key to preparing accurate DPRs and developing hassle-free, safety-assured highways. He also noted that the use of bio-bitumen and recycled plastic waste in highway construction is enhancing durability, sustainability, and cost efficiency, while supporting the nation’s eco-friendly infrastructure goals.
Reiterating the government’s vision, Nitin Gadkari stated that the mission is to build world-class infrastructure rooted in innovation and sustainable mobility solutions. This transformative approach, he added, will generate extensive employment opportunities, strengthen the infra-skill ecosystem, and steer India towards a self-reliant and resilient future.