The Gujarat government has approved more than Rs 3,400 crore for the resurfacing of 5,700 km of rural roads. Contractors will now be required to maintain these roads for up to 10 years under a new performance-based contracting system. This initiative aims to enhance the state’s road network and ensure improved safety for the public.
State Minister Jitu Vaghani announced that the approved funds will be used to improve non-plan roads connecting villages across Gujarat. The plan includes resurfacing 5,700 km of non-planned roads, covering approximately 67% of the state’s non-plan road network. This move is expected to significantly enhance connectivity in rural areas and make travel safer and more efficient for citizens.
The state government has also introduced Output and Performance Based Contracts (OPRC) and Performance Based Maintenance Contracts (PBMC) to shift maintenance practices. Under OPRC, works exceeding Rs 25 crore will have a 10-year contract period, including construction and maintenance phases. Additionally, works ranging from Rs two crore to Rs 25 crore will fall under PBMC, with a seven-year contract period focusing on surface improvement and maintenance.
The new approach emphasizes quality over quantity, with contractors now being paid based on the road quality they deliver. This includes not only the asphalt surface but also the maintenance of side shoulders, drainage, and road furniture. By adopting scientific methods and preventive maintenance, the state aims to prolong road lifespan, reduce repair needs, and enhance transparency and accountability through digital monitoring and performance indicators.
