Gandhinagar, Sep 22: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (SSNNL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve coordination and simplify approvals for infrastructure works involving national highways, canals and pipelines in Gujarat.
The agreement is aimed at reducing procedural delays and establishing a more streamlined system for projects where highways intersect with irrigation infrastructure.The MoU was signed in Gandhinagar by officials representing NHAI and SSNNL in the presence of senior officials and directors of the irrigation agency.
Under the agreement, the two organisations have mutually agreed to waive various fees, charges and related levies applicable to highway, canal and pipeline crossings covered by the arrangement.
The provision is expected to help lower project expenditure, reduce administrative hurdles and make more efficient use of public funds.
The agreement also provides for faster sharing of project-related information between the two agencies. It calls for the adoption of standardised engineering practices and sets out clearer responsibilities for the construction and maintenance of crossings and related infrastructure.
Officials said the framework would support better project planning and help maintain engineering and operational standards during implementation.
The collaboration is expected to strengthen coordination between highway and irrigation authorities and facilitate integrated planning of infrastructure projects in Gujarat.
By reducing approval-related delays and improving coordination between the agencies, the MoU is expected to contribute to faster execution of highway and irrigation projects, while also helping control overall implementation costs.
The agreement is part of efforts to improve infrastructure coordination and strengthen connectivity in the state, with potential benefits for mobility and economic activity.
