JICA India Chief commends progress on Mumbai - Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): Saito Mitsunori, Chief Representative of JICA India, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project, lauding the impact of PM Gati Shakti plan on expediting public works across the country. Mitsunori also conveyed Japan's interest in bolstering India's border road networks and participating in a transnational power transmission initiative involving Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

Highlighting the positive influence of the PM Gati Shakti Plan, launched in 2021 to enhance multimodal connectivity infrastructure, Mitsunori emphasized its role in streamlining the project approval process. He noted that the clarity achieved once a project concept is in the pipeline within the government has significantly contributed to monitoring and accelerating public works in India.

Mitsunori acknowledged the improvement in the project implementation scenario, citing the reduction in delays and cost overruns. He mentioned that the previous delays, attributed to the lengthy clearance process from local authorities, have been mitigated, allowing for smoother project execution.

As a crucial funding partner for several multi-billion infrastructure projects in India, including metro developments in Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi, JICA has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's infrastructural landscape. The agency's commitment extends beyond traditional projects, encompassing sectors like rural development and education.

Speaking specifically about the Ahmedabad-Mumbai High-Speed Corridor, Mitsunori expressed enthusiasm regarding the initiation of work on all sections. He highlighted the commencement of undersea tunneling work between Mumbai and Thane as a significant milestone. The JICA India chief conveyed the agency's satisfaction with the rapid and steady progress of the project, especially after the Maharashtra government decided to start tendering works within the state.

Beyond the ongoing projects, Mitsunori indicated JICA's interest in contributing to the development of quality and resilient border roads in the Himalayan region, particularly after a tunnel accident in Uttarakhand underscored the need for robust infrastructure. Additionally, JICA is actively exploring opportunities to fund power transmission projects connecting Nepal and Bhutan with Bangladesh, emphasizing India's pivotal role in such regional endeavors.

Mitsunori expressed optimism about JICA's engagement with regional countries and its commitment to contributing to vital infrastructure projects. The ongoing discussions with Nepal and Bhutan regarding power connectivity networks exemplify JICA's dedication to fostering collaborative initiatives for the benefit of the entire region.