Pan-India SIR Phase 2: Bengal, UP Among 12 States – Full List & Impact

The Indian government has unveiled the second phase of the Special Infrastructure Roadmap (SIR), targeting 12 states including West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh. This expansion aims to boost regional connectivity, cut logistics costs, and accelerate economic growth across India.

What is the Special Infrastructure Roadmap (SIR)?

The SIR is a flagship initiative by the Centre to develop:
✔ High-capacity road networks
✔ Logistics hubs
✔ Industrial corridors

Phase 1 (2021) covered 8 states (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, etc.) and successfully reduced freight costs by 10-15%.

Now, Phase 2 will extend these benefits to 12 more states, ensuring wider economic inclusivity.

Full List of 12 States in SIR Phase 2

The selected states and their strategic roles:

1. West Bengal – Key gateway for Bangladesh & Northeast trade
2. Uttar Pradesh – Critical for Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC)
3. Bihar – Strengthening Nepal & eastern India freight routes
4. Odisha – Boosting mining & industrial corridor links
5. Jharkhand – Enhancing coal & steel transport
6. Chhattisgarh – Expanding mineral logistics
7. Madhya Pradesh – Connecting farm & industrial zones
8. Rajasthan – Improving desert & border connectivity
9. Andhra Pradesh – Port-linked road upgrades
10. Telangana – IT & manufacturing supply chains
11. Assam – Northeast development under Act East Policy
12. Punjab – Upgrading trade routes to Pakistan & Afghanistan

Why Were These States Chosen?

Selection was based on:
– Economic potential (industrial/agricultural output)
– Geostrategic importance (border trade, security)
– Infrastructure gaps (logistical bottlenecks)

For example:
– West Bengal is vital for Bangladesh trade.
– Uttar Pradesh is crucial for Hindi heartland supply chains.
– Assam supports Northeast connectivity & Act East Policy.

Expected Benefits of SIR Phase 2

📉 15-20% lower logistics costs
⏱️ 30% faster freight movement
👷 5+ lakh new jobs in construction & logistics
💰 ₹1.2 lakh crore private investment in highways

Political & Industry Reactions

• The move comes ahead of 2024 elections, with opposition questioning fund allocation.
• Industry bodies (FICCI, CII) applaud focus on eastern & central India, which lag in infrastructure.

Next Steps & Timeline

🗓️ Dec 2023: Detailed project reports (DPRs)
🏗️ Early 2024: Construction begins
🚀 Fast-tracked clearances for land & environment

Conclusion

SIR Phase 2 marks a leap toward pan-India logistics efficiency. Challenges remain, but the economic upside is significant.

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