(a) whether the Government are aware that India has more than 3 million KM of roads network, making it one of the largest in the world but the quality of the roads is inappropriate and cannot meet the needs of efficient and fast moving transportation; and
(b) if so, the measures taken to improve the quality of the roads in the country?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGHWAYS (MAJOR GENERAL (RETD.) B.C. KHANDURI, AVSM)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) Central Government is responsible only for development and maintenance of National Highways. Central Government has taken number of measures like taking up National Highway Development Project, Improvement of Riding Quality Programme, 4-laning of National Highways, strengthening of existing pavements etc. for improvement of National Highways. The Central Road Fund has also been revamped for creation of Dedicated Fund for development of rural roads, development and maintenance of National Highways, State roads and roads of Economic and Inter-state importance.