Approval for 56 Wayside Amenities in Gujarat, 501 to be developed nationwide

Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], May 5 (ANI): The Central Government has taken a significant step to boost national highway infrastructure and improve amenities for travellers.
Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari informed the Rajya Sabha that approval has been granted to develop 501 Wayside Amenities (WSAs) along national highways and expressways, including 56 in Gujarat.
This initiative is set to further enhance Gujarat's highway network and ensure improved facilities for commuters. The minister noted that of the 501 approved WSAs, 94 are currently operational, and the government plans to develop over 700 WSAs by 2028-29. In Gujarat, nine out of the 56 sanctioned WSAs are already functional.
Wayside Amenities (WSAs) are infrastructure facilities developed along major highways to offer essential services to travellers. These amenities include parking facilities, EV charging stations, quality food and beverage options, clean restrooms and basic medical assistance.
The government plans to set up WSAs at regular intervals of 40 to 60 kilometres along key highways and expressways. Special zones within these facilities will promote small businesses and local artisans, with initiatives like 'Village Haat' to showcase and sell regional products.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat's road infrastructure is witnessing rapid progress. The development of WSAs will not only enhance commuter convenience but also generate new employment opportunities across the state.
Earlier, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the campus developed by Motabar Kadva Patidar Samaj Sudharak Mandal and Narayan Samatva Naturopathy Center at Chhatral.At Chhatral, during the inauguration of the campus by the Samaj Sudharak Mandal and the launch of the Naturopathy Centre, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel urged citizens to actively contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 and Viksit Gujarat, while embracing the nine resolutions outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister stated that the institution actively promotes resolutions such as 'Catch the Rain,' 'Make Cleanliness a Habit,' 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,' and natural farming, while also guiding others in these efforts. He further emphasised the importance of embracing natural farming and moving away from chemical-based agriculture through the newly established Naturopathy Centre. (ANI)