Nitin Gadkari Skips Mumbai-Goa Highway Event Over Delay
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has said he will not attend the inauguration of the long-delayed Mumbai-Goa highway project, saying he feels “ashamed” that the work has taken so long to complete.
Gadkari Says Mumbai-Goa Highway Delay Is Shameful
Speaking after inaugurating a six-lane elevated corridor at Porvorim near Panaji, Gadkari said he had already decided to stay away from the Mumbai-Goa highway inauguration because of repeated delays.
The highway, which passes through Maharashtra’s Konkan region, has faced years of construction setbacks despite multiple completion targets.
Gadkari said he would personally inspect the entire route in October by travelling by road from Mumbai airport to Goa to assess whether conditions have improved for motorists.
Contractors and Officials Face Tougher Action
The minister also warned that contractors and government officials responsible for delayed or poor-quality infrastructure work would face strict action.
Gadkari said he wanted to significantly increase the number of contractors blacklisted and officials suspended over negligence, delays and substandard construction.
He has repeatedly criticised poor execution of major road projects and stressed that accountability must extend to both contractors and supervising officials.
Land, Forest Clearances Delayed Highway Work
The Mumbai-Goa highway project has faced several obstacles over the years, including land acquisition disputes, legal issues and delays in securing forest clearances.
Waterlogging during the monsoon has also affected construction and road conditions on some stretches.
The prolonged work has caused frustration among regular commuters and travellers heading towards the Konkan and Goa, with potholes and incomplete sections repeatedly attracting criticism.
Gadkari said the October inspection would allow him to directly assess progress before the project moves towards completion.
