To strengthen road infrastructure in Gujarat, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹4,583.64-crore project to upgrade two stretches of National Highway-56 into four-lane roads.
The project includes construction of the Dhamasiya–Bitada/Movi (47.46 km) and Nasarpore–Malotha (60.21 km) sections, covering a total length of 107.67 km. NH-56 originates at Nimbahera in Rajasthan, passes through parts of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, and finally connects with NH-48 near Vapi.
According to the government, the upgraded highway will improve connectivity in tribal and backward regions of Dahod, Chhota Udepur, Tapi, Bharuch, and Narmada districts, supporting regional economic development. The project will also enhance access to the Statue of Unity, located about 11 km from NH-56.Designed for a speed of 100 kmph, the improved corridor is expected to raise the average travel speed to 70 kmph, reducing travel time by nearly 40 percent, from around 2.5 hours to 1.5 hours.The initiative, to be implemented by the National Highways Authority of India, is expected to generate 19.38 lakh man-days of direct employment and 22.82 lakh man-days of indirect employment, while also boosting economic activity along the corridor. Once completed, the project will provide continuous four-lane connectivity between Bodeli and Malotha and improve links with NH-53, NH-48, and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway.