Transport Planning Authority mulled to oversee development across infra sectors

India plans to set up a federal Transport Planning Authority to coordinate infrastructure projects and curb wasteful spending. The new body, which will work closely with Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi’s office, will oversee development across aviation, highways, shipping, rail and urban planning, aligning various ministries to improve project viability and avoid delays. 

Cabinet clearance for the proposal may take three to six months, as per reports. 

The new authority will aim to prioritise viable projects and accelerate approvals. Proposals are currently vetted by various departments before going to the Finance Ministry for the funding green-light. Despite ongoing investments in India’s highways, airports, rail lines and ports, departments have operated in silos, resulting in disconnected systems, the reports said.

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