Question : IMPROVEMENT OF NH - 212

(a) whether the newly formed National Highway-212 is having the requisite standards of National Highway;

(b) if not, the steps taken by the Union Government for the improvements of NH-212;

(c) whether the Union Government are aware of the traffic congestion in the Ghat Section of NH-212;

(d) if so, the action taken by the Government to strengthen and widen the Ghat Section for the smooth trafficing of the vehicles; and

(e) the action taken by the Government to carry out the repairs and bitumen concreting work after the formation of NH-212?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) [MAJOR GENERAL (RETD.) B.C. KHANDURI, AVSM]

(a)&(b) NH-212 has been declared as National Highway in July, 1999 and is yet to be developed to National Highway standards. Development and maintenance of National Highways is a continuous process and works are taken up in a phased manner depending upon the inter-se priority and availability of funds.

(c)&(d) Yes, Sir. For improvement of the congested part of the Ghat Section, provision of Rs. 7.00 Crore has been made in Annual Plan 2001-2002.

(e) After declaration of National Highway, about Rs.10.43 Crore have been sanctioned for repairs and improvement of riding quality in addition to routine maintenance.