Setu Bandhan Scheme Bridges Gaps in Arunachal Pradesh

Advancing Connectivity: Setu Bandhan Scheme Bridges Gaps in Arunachal Pradesh

Introduction

• In a significant development, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways recently unveiled the Setu Bandhan Scheme, earmarking funds from the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) for seven pivotal bridge projects in Arunachal Pradesh. This initiative, under the aegis of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, is poised to revolutionize inter-state connectivity, especially in historically neglected rural border regions, by replacing railway line Level Crossings (LCs) with advanced Road Over Bridges (ROBs) or Rail Under Bridges (RUBs). To grasp the full impact of this endeavor, it’s essential to delve into the finer details of the Setu Bandhan Scheme and the pivotal role played by the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF).

Setu Bandhan Scheme: Bridging Divides

• The Setu Bandhan Scheme emerges as a visionary initiative under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, with a primary objective to bolster inter-state connectivity. This is particularly crucial in remote border areas that have historically been underserved by state road networks. The core focus lies in replacing railway line Level Crossings (LCs) with modernized infrastructural solutions like Road Over Bridges (ROBs) and Rail Under Bridges (RUBs). This not only ensures safer passage but also expedites transportation and connectivity, thereby fostering economic growth and development.

Empowering Rural Border Areas

• The Setu Bandhan Scheme carries a transformative potential for the rural border areas of Arunachal Pradesh. By addressing the longstanding issue of inadequate connectivity, it promises to usher in a new era of progress. Historically marginalized regions will experience a surge in accessibility, facilitating smoother movement of goods, services, and people. This, in turn, is expected to catalyze economic activities, create employment opportunities, and improve overall living standards in these areas.

The Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF): A Crucial Enabler

• Established in 2000 through the Central Road Fund Act, 2000, the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) holds a pivotal role in realizing the Setu Bandhan Scheme. Formerly known as the Central Road Fund, it operates under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Finance. This fund is sustained through a cess levied in conjunction with excise duty on petrol and diesel. The allocation of CRIF resources to the Setu Bandhan Scheme exemplifies a strategic utilization of funds for infrastructural development, underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity.

Conclusion: Paving the Way for Progress

• The Setu Bandhan Scheme, propelled by the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF), stands as a beacon of progress for Arunachal Pradesh. Through its targeted interventions in rural border areas, it promises to reshape connectivity dynamics, propelling these regions towards prosperity. By replacing Level Crossings with advanced bridge solutions, this initiative not only ensures safer travel but also unlocks avenues for economic growth and societal upliftment. As the projects under the Setu Bandhan Scheme take shape, they are poised to leave an indelible mark on the socio-economic landscape of Arunachal Pradesh, setting an example for strategic infrastructural development across the nation.