Question : IMPLEMENTATION OF NHDP

(a) whether the Union Government has identified various constraints in implementation of National Highways Development Project;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the steps taken by the Union Government to ensure timely implementation of the project;

(d) whether private investors have pointed out some difficulties in regard to some provisions of the MCA including the clause dealing with termination of the contract prematurely by the Authority and variability of concession period;

(e) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; and

(f) the steps taken by the Union Government in this regard?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS (SHRI R.P.N. SINGH)

(a) to (c): Constraints in implementation of National Highways Development Project (NHDP) mainly include delay due to non-availability of forest/environmental clearances, delay in land acquisition and utility shifting, delay in obtaining railway clearances and poor performance of some of the contractors. In order to expedite implementation of projects, Regional Offices headed by a Chief General Manager have been set up by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) for close monitoring of implementation of projects. Six zonal offices headed by Executive Director have also been created for coordination with the State Governments regarding land acquisition and other pre- construction activities. Projects are periodically reviewed at the field offices and at the HQs.

(d): No, Sir.

(e) & (f): Do not arise.