Gadkari Says No Compromise on Quality of Road Projects

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has issued a strong warning to contractors over poor-quality road construction, saying firms that fail to deliver quality work could face strict action or be barred from participating in future tenders.

Gadkari said his approach towards contractors has changed and stressed that quality must remain the top priority in infrastructure projects. While acknowledging that contractors sometimes face genuine challenges, he said those undertaking government contracts are expected to overcome difficulties and deliver results.

The Union Minister also highlighted concerns over the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs). According to Gadkari, many DPRs are prepared without adequate field assessment, leading to weak planning and execution.

He said defective DPRs can significantly contribute to road safety problems and accidents, underlining the need for better planning before construction projects begin.

Gadkari further stressed that contractual requirements, including bank guarantees, cannot substitute for actual quality on the ground. Contractors, he said, must take responsibility for delivering durable and safe infrastructure.

The remarks underline the government's focus on improving accountability, construction standards and road safety across India's expanding highway network.