Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated Chintan Shivir 2026, a national conclave on highway infrastructure, on October 5 in Gujarat.

The two-day event is being held at Ekta Nagar in Narmada district on October 5 and 6. Its motto is “Gatishakti se Pragati”, or progress through speed of movement.

Transport and public works ministers from states, senior officials and highway agencies are attending. The conclave aims to fix problems in building and maintaining highways across India.

Gadkari stressed better planning at the project report stage. He said proper surveys, land acquisition and clearances at the start can prevent delays and cost overruns.

He also said road safety must be built into highway design from the beginning. Accident-prone spots should be identified during planning, not fixed after construction.

The conclave has five theme sessions. They cover PM GatiShakti planning, land acquisition, concession agreements, safe highway design and quality checks.

The minister called the event an important platform for the Centre and states to share experiences and find practical solutions.