Question : Modernization of Road Transport System

(a) whether the road transportation system of the country requires immediate modernization and latest technology and if so the details thereof;

(b) whether the Government is aware that overloading and pollution are burning problems for road transportation in India, if so, the details thereof, State-wise;

(c) whether the Government has appointed a set of agencies or commissions to look after the maintenance and construction of roads but there is lack of coordination between the agencies and the Government leading to contradictory situation and resulting in bad road condition, if so, the details thereof;

(d) the amount of funds sanctioned for implementation of the schemes for strengthening public transport system;

(e) whether the Government has taken cognisance of the fact that the length of National Highways and State Highways has increased tremendously as opposed to stagnant growth of public transport in the country; and

(f) if so, the details thereof and the action taken to augment the public transport in proportion to National and State Highways?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE
MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA)

(a) Yes, Madam. Modernisation of Road Transport System is a continuous process. Ministry has worked on improving standards of the vehicles. In addition, after implementation of GST, the commercial tax check posts have been abolished, thereby reducing the stoppings on the roads. E-tolling systems have also helped in promoting seamless transport on road.

(b) Transportation by Road is a State Subject under the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways do not maintain state wise details on overloading and pollution.

(c) Government of India has appointed various agencies namely, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited(NHIDCL) to look after the maintenance and construction of National Highways(NH). Maintenance & Repair of National Highways is an ongoing process. There is no lack of coordination among the Government and the Implementing Agencies.

(d) The total fund of Rs. 72 Crores has been earmarked for the scheme ‘Strengthening of Public Transport System’ during the cycle of 14th Finance Commission, i.e. 2017-18, 2018-19 & 2019-20.

(e) & (f) Yes Madam. To augment the Public transport System, this Ministry is implementing various schemes namely Strengthening of Public Transport System, Development of Bus Ports on BOT Basis and Nirbhaya Scheme.

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