Citation

Singh D. Indian Highw. 1996; 24(6): 37-43.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1996, Indian Roads Congress)

DOI

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PMID

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Abstract

This paper discusses some of the present severe strains on India's road infrastructure, together with some requirements for a long-term National Road Transport Policy for India. The road network has increased, but road traffic and the number of road vehicles have risen even more, resulting in serious congestion on many roads and in cities. The development of further road network infrastructure is essential for India's economic development. The current National Road Development Plan (1981-2001) sets several targets, and contains a comprehensive list of recommendations. Steps have recently been taken to strengthen the Indian road construction industry. Several projects have been financed by loans from the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and OECF, Japan, but they only cover about 4% of National Highways. It is widely accepted that the private sector should be enabled to develop road infrastructure and operate road schemes, to supplement public sector projects. Roads are progressively deteriorating in India, because of the inadequate maintenance funds that are provided by the State Public Work Departments. The commercial vehicle fleet needs upgrading, to improve fuel efficiency and reduce costs and exhaust emissions. Road accident casualties are excessive, with about 70% attributed to driver faults.