The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), with technical assistance from the Japan Agency for International Cooperation (JICA), has developed five guidelines aimed at improving mountain road infrastructure in India. These guidelines are designed to ensure high quality and sustainable road projects in hilly regions that will improve road networks and promote economic growth.
These guidelines were published by the Indian Road Congress (IRC) and released on 7th July 2023 by Union Minister for Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari during the inaugural function of 225th Mid-term Council meeting in Raipur, Chhattisgarh attended by Minister of PWD, Chhattisgarh, Director General (Road Development) & Special Secretary of MoRTH and other dignitaries.
The guidelines provide technical specifications and best practices for road construction in mountainous regions, covering the following topics:
1. Hilly road planning
2. Slope and embankment protection with advanced technology
3. Tunnel on road arteries in a hilly area
4. Mountain Bridge with advanced technology
5. Management and maintenance of mountain roads
Recognizing the vital role that well-maintained roads play in facilitating trade, connectivity and social development, MoRTH and JICA agreed to implement the “Mountainous Regions Highways Capacity Building Project” from 2016 to 2021.
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MJPS/NSK