The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has recently given the green light to seven critical bridge projects in Arunachal Pradesh under the Setu Bandhan Scheme funded by Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF). With a total cost of around Rs 118.50 Crores, these projects are set to be executed during the financial year of 2023-24.
Understanding the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF)
Previously known as the Central Road Fund, the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) was created in the year 2000 as per the Central Road Fund Act, 2000. The fund is largely supported through a cess imposed on petrol and diesel, alongside excise duty. The administration of the CRIF is handled by the Ministry of Finance, although it was earlier under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
The Central Road Fund Act Amendment, 2018
A significant alteration was made to the Central Road Fund Act in 2018, which resulted in the renaming of the Central Road Fund to Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF). This amendment broadened the scope of use for the road cess accumulated under the CRIF. It now includes financing not just for road projects, but also other infrastructure projects such as waterways. Additionally, a portion of the railway infrastructure and social infrastructure such as educational institutions and medical colleges can also be funded from this cess.
Details about the Setu Bandhan Scheme
The Setu Bandhan Scheme is a project introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways. The fundamental aim of this scheme is to propel the construction of Rail Over Bridges (ROBs), Rail Under Bridges (RUBs), and bridges on State Roads. By replacing existing level crossings with bridges, the Setu Bandhan Scheme seeks to enhance road safety, as it can significantly reduce the number of accidents at these spots.
Upcoming Bridge Projects in Arunachal Pradesh
The recent approval from the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways is for seven bridge projects in Arunachal Pradesh, which are part of the Setu Bandhan Scheme. The combined expense for these projects totals to approximately Rs 118.50 Crores. These projects are slated for implementation during the fiscal year of 2023-24, reflecting the ministry’s dedication to improving road safety and infrastructure in the region.
