National Highways in India: Connecting the Nation's Arteries
India's road infrastructure plays a pivotal role in its economic development, with National Highways (NH) serving as the primary channels for inter-state and national connectivity. As of 2024, the National Highways network spans approximately 145,000 kilometers, facilitating over 40% of the country's road traffic.
Table of Contents
Introduction
National Highways are the backbone of India's road transport system, ensuring seamless connectivity between states and major cities. Managed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), these highways are crucial for the movement of goods and passengers across the country.
Overview of National Highways in India
Total Length and Distribution
The National Highways network has witnessed significant expansion, growing from 65,569 kilometers in 2005 to 144,955 kilometers in 2023.
This growth underscores the government's commitment to enhancing infrastructure. Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh maintain extensive NH networks, reflecting their strategic importance.
State-wise National Highways Length (2023):
State | Length (km) |
Maharashtra | 18,459 |
Uttar Pradesh | 12,270 |
Rajasthan | 10,706 |
Madhya Pradesh | 9,105 |
Andhra Pradesh | 6,529 |
Gujarat | 6,635 |
Karnataka | 7,334 |
Bihar | 5,030 |
West Bengal | 3,664 |
Tamil Nadu | 6,741 |
Source: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India.
Numbering System
Introduced in 2010, the NH numbering system assigns:
Even Numbers: Denote North-South corridors.
Odd Numbers: Denote East-West corridors.
Three-Digit Numbers: Represent branch roads connecting to primary highways.
Key National Highways and Their Routes
NH 44
Formerly NH 7, NH 44 is India's longest highway, stretching from Srinagar in Jammu & Kashmir to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. It passes through major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Bangalore, covering diverse terrains and cultures.
Keywords: NH 44, longest national highway, Srinagar to Kanyakumari
NH 48
Connecting Delhi to Chennai, NH 48 links key cities such as Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai. It serves as a vital commercial route, facilitating efficient movement of goods and passengers.
Keywords: NH 48, Delhi to Chennai, commercial route
NH 16
Running along India's eastern coast, NH 16 connects Kolkata to Chennai, passing through cities like Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam. It plays a crucial role in promoting trade and tourism along the eastern seaboard.
Keywords: NH 16, eastern coastal highway, trade and tourism
NH 65
Linking Mumbai to Kolkata, NH 65 traverses states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha. It enhances connectivity between two major commercial centers, boosting economic activities.
Keywords: NH 65, Mumbai to Kolkata, economic connectivity
NH 7
Not to be confused with NH 44, NH 7 connects cities like Pune, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. It serves as an important link between major IT hubs, supporting the tech industry's growth.
Keywords: NH 7, Pune to Hyderabad, IT corridor
NH 31
Running through the northeastern states, NH 31 connects cities like Siliguri and Guwahati. It is essential for regional connectivity, facilitating trade and cultural exchange.
Keywords: NH 31, northeastern highways, regional connectivity
NH 44A
Serving as a spur of NH 44, NH 44A connects Jammu to Srinagar, providing a vital link between these two major cities in Jammu & Kashmir.
Keywords: NH 44A, Jammu to Srinagar, Kashmir valley
Economic and Social Significance
Economic Impact
National Highways are instrumental in:
Trade Facilitation: Ensuring efficient movement of goods between states.
Sources
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