New Delhi: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), in collaboration with ROADIS, a Madrid-headquartered multinational specialising in global infrastructure development, has conducted a cycle donation drive across its three highway projects in Varanasi, Surat and Ajmer. As part of the initiative, 80 deserving girl students from 10 schools across Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat were presented with bicycles to help them overcome mobility challenges and ensure uninterrupted access to education.
The main event, held in Varanasi on December 9, was attended by senior officials from NHAI, including NHAI's Member (Administration) Vishal Chauhan (IAS); Commissioner (Varanasi Division) S Rajalingam; Regional Officer (Bihar) NL Yeotkar; Regional Officer (UP East) Pankaj Kumar Maurya; PIU Sasaram's Project Director RK Verma; and PIU Varanasi's Project Director Arun Kumar.
Speaking at the event, Chauhan said the initiative aligns with NHAI’s focus on ensuring safe, accessible and equitable mobility for communities along national highways.
“This effort directly empowers young girls by removing mobility barriers and enabling them to pursue education with confidence. Strengthening such partnerships creates meaningful, long-term impact in the lives of the communities we serve,” he noted.
ROADIS, which operates multiple tollway projects in India, said the donation drive reflects its commitment to fostering community development around its operational corridors.
“Through our social programs, we aim to create pathways to opportunity. The cycle donation initiative supports safer mobility and the educational aspirations of young girls in our project communities,” said Alvaro Santos, Head – India SBU, ROADIS. He also acknowledged NHAI’s continued guidance and partnership in enabling socially impactful interventions.
The initiative forms part of ROADIS’ broader Shikshaantra Plus programme, which is being implemented across 10 schools in India. The programme focuses on strengthening educational infrastructure, promoting digital learning, enhancing learning outcomes, and ensuring equal opportunities for students.
The cycle donation drive underscores the growing emphasis among India’s infrastructure players on community-centric development, particularly initiatives aimed at improving access to education for girls in underserved regions.
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