<h1>ADB and India Sign $177M Loan to Upgrade 450 km of Roads in Maharashtra, Boosting Connectivity and Safety.</h1> The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India have signed a $177 million loan agreement to enhance 450 kilometers of state highways and major district roads in Maharashtra. This project aims to improve connectivity between rural and urban areas, facilitating access to markets and services and reducing income disparities. It includes road safety enhancements and a 5-year performance-based maintenance plan. The project will upgrade roads to a 2-lane standard across seven districts, improving links to national highways and key infrastructure. Additionally, it will train Maharashtra Public Works Department staff in climate adaptation and disaster resilience in road design.