The Asian Development Bank's (ADB) Board of Directors has approved a multitranche financing facility (MFF) for the Second Rural Connectivity Investment Program totaling $500 million to improve rural roads in five Indian states.

"All-weather roads are crucial for economic growth, especially in India's rural areas," said Andri Heriawan, an ADB Transport Specialist. "Building on the success of our previous assistance in the rural roads sector, ADB will work closely with the Government of India to provide the connectivity to improve rural communities' access to markets, health centers, education facilities, and other opportunities."

Rural roads are vital components of India's overall road network, comprising 80% of all paved roads in the country and connecting rural areas with major district roads, state roads, and national highways. Recognizing this, the investment program will construct and upgrade over 12,000 km of rural roads in the states of Assam, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and West Bengal. It will also support the state governments to improve rural road maintenance and safety.

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