Raghuvansh Prasad stresses on new model law for road safety

Jaipur, Nov 16 (UNI) Union Rural Development Minister Raghuvansh Prasad Singh today stressed the need for formulation of new model law for enhancing road safety and flawless road construction.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 68th Indian Road Congress here this evening Mr Singh expressed concern over high casaulties in road mishaps and said that besides human errors, defective construction and unrepaired roads were also responsible for road accidents.

He said that special law should be formulated to ensure stern action against erring engineers and contractors for low quality, defective road construction or non repairs of damaged raods.

He also identified over-loading of vehicles as another serious problem crippling highways in the country and said that loaded trucks and other heavy vehicles caused severe damages to the roads and were serious safety hazards.

Mr Singh also stressed the need of innovative approach to evolve concept of asset management with public private particiaption for ensuring rehabilitation and maintenance of roads.

He said the country was developing roads as asset at a huge cost and therefore, effective concept of this asset management was needed. He also urged for special budgetary provisions for road safety and maintenance.

Union Minister of State for Shipping and Surface Transport KH Muniyappa presided over the inaugural ceremony of the four day event which is being participated by around 1,500 engineers from accross the country.

Rajasthan's PWD Minister Rajendra Singh Rathore also spoke on the occasion. Rajasthan's Minister of State for Panchyat Raj Babu Lal Varma and several other dignitaries were also present.

Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje was also scheduled to participate in the function but she could not turned up.

UNI