The 108th meeting of the Network Planning Group reviewed key road projects aimed at strengthening multimodal connectivity under the Prime Minister's GatiShakti (PM GatiShakti) national masterplan. The meeting evaluated project readiness, intermodal linkages and timelines to ensure alignment with national logistics objectives. Officials from central ministries, state agencies and road authorities discussed route optimisation and last-mile connectivity to ports, railheads and industrial corridors. The session emphasised coordinated planning to reduce transit times and logistics costs across freight corridors.

Delegates assessed technical and environmental clearances, land acquisition progress and construction sequencing to accelerate implementation. The group prioritised projects that enhance connectivity with rail and waterways and that can be integrated with existing infrastructure to maximise utility. Use of geospatial planning tools and data-driven monitoring was encouraged to improve transparency and track milestones. Stakeholders were urged to synchronise funding disbursements with execution schedules to avoid delays.

The meeting reviewed measures to strengthen multimodal hubs and improve freight village connectivity, with a focus on streamlining multimodal transfers and minimising handling. Attention was drawn to improving approaches to ports, logistic parks and industrial estates to support faster cargo movement and reduce congestion on urban approaches. Coordination among agencies was highlighted as essential for harmonising design standards, permits and safety measures. The group also considered capacity enhancement works to accommodate projected freight volumes.

Officials noted that timely implementation of the reviewed projects is expected to generate employment opportunities and support economic competitiveness through lower logistics costs and improved supply chain resilience. Continued inter-agency collaboration and regular monitoring were identified as critical for translating plans into on-ground progress. The Network Planning Group resolved to maintain a rolling pipeline of priority projects and to report periodic updates to the central coordination mechanism. Further technical reviews will guide phased execution and integration with national infrastructure plans.