Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, has announced ambitious green initiatives in the construction sector, aligning with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision to make India carbon neutral by 2070. Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, Shri Gadkari emphasized the government’s commitment to cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
As part of the ongoing Swachta hi seva fortnight, the minister highlighted various cleanliness initiatives, including clean-up efforts along national highways, wayside amenities, dhabas, and toll plazas at 13,000 locations, with nearly 7,000 locations already completed.
Shri Gadkari also addressed the pressing issue of solid waste disposal in urban areas, acknowledging it as a significant environmental challenge. He revealed that the Ministry is actively working on solutions to repurpose urban solid waste in highway construction, emphasizing the potential to create wealth from waste through technology and visionary leadership.
The minister underscored the importance of alternative biofuels in India’s sustainable future. He advocated for the development of an Ethanol Economy, aiming for a value of Rs. 2 Lakh Crore and boosting agricultural growth by 6%. Shri Gadkari noted the launch of the world’s first BS-6 Compliant Flex Fuel Strong Hybrid Vehicle in Delhi, which will operate on 100% ethanol, resulting in substantial economic savings.
Highlighting advancements in bio-ethanol production, the minister mentioned that one ton of rice can yield approximately 400 to 450 liters of ethanol, marking a significant step toward sustainability and energy independence.
Shri Gadkari also touched upon India’s plans to mandate the use of 1% Sustainable Aviation Fuel by 2025, with future goals to escalate this to 5% blending in the country. He lauded the efforts of Indian Oil in establishing a plant in Panipat with the capacity to produce 87,000 tonnes of Sustainable Aviation Fuel.
Finally, the minister emphasized hydrogen as the fuel of the future, asserting that it holds the key to India becoming a net exporter of energy. These green initiatives demonstrate India’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2070.
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