In exercise of the powers conferred by sub section 2 of section 2 of the National Highways Act,

## Report on National Highways Act Amendment: S.O. 517(E) **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes Notification S.O. 517(E), dated February 3, 2021, which amends the National Highways Act, 1956. The core purpose of this amendment is to declare a specific highway in Andhra Pradesh as a National Highway, assigning it the number NH 440. The key finding is the addition of a new highway segment to the national highway network, which will likely impact regional connectivity and infrastructure development in the affected area. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide an informative overview of the amendment to the National Highways Act, 1956, as detailed in Notification S.O. 517(E) published on February 3, 2021. The analysis focuses solely on the information provided within the notification itself. **3. Policy Overview:** * This report concerns an amendment to the National Highways Act, 1956. * The core objective of this amendment, as stated in the provided text, is to declare a specific highway as a National Highway and assign it a specific number. **4. Background and Rationale:** The amendment appears to address the need to formally recognize and integrate a previously existing highway into the national highway network. This integration is likely driven by factors such as increased traffic volume, strategic importance of the route, or the need for improved infrastructure and maintenance standards. The provided text implies a prioritization of this highway segment, warranting its inclusion in the national network. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This amendment focuses specifically on changes to the schedule of the National Highways Act, 1956. * **What specific part of the original policy is being changed:** The Schedule to the National Highways Act, 1956 is being amended. This schedule lists the national highways, their numbers, and descriptions. * **What the *new* rule/provision *is*:** The amendment adds a new entry to the schedule, designating the highway starting from its junction with NH40 near Rayachoty, connecting Vempalli, Proddatur, and terminating at its Junction with NH 40 near Chagalamarri in the State of Andhra Pradesh as National Highway No. 440. This highway segment, previously perhaps a state highway or another type of road, is now officially recognized as part of the national highway system. The length of this highway can be calculated using the location markers provided. It stretches from Rayachoty to Chagalamarri. * **Explain the *difference* or the *effect* of this specific change:** The primary effect of this change is to bring the specified highway segment under the purview of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) or other relevant central government agencies for maintenance, development, and regulation. It also means this road will be eligible for funding and prioritization under national highway programs. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The target audience and stakeholders directly affected by this amendment include: * Residents and businesses located along the newly designated NH 440 corridor in Andhra Pradesh. * Transportation companies and logistics providers utilizing this route. * The Andhra Pradesh State Government and its associated departments responsible for road infrastructure. * NHAI and other central government agencies involved in national highway development and maintenance. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible agency/bodies mentioned?** The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is the responsible agency for issuing this notification. NHAI is likely to be responsible for the implementation and maintenance of the new national highway. * **Any timelines or procedures specified *in the text*?** The text does not specify any immediate timelines. However, the implication is that the change is effective from the date of the notification (February 3, 2021). * The amendment requires the relevant authorities to update their records and maps to reflect the new national highway designation. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcomes of this amendment are: * Improved connectivity and transportation efficiency along the Rayachoty-Chagalamarri corridor. * Potential for increased economic activity and development in the region due to improved infrastructure. * Enhanced safety standards and road quality along the route due to national highway-level maintenance. * Streamlined regulatory oversight and management of the highway segment. **9. Conclusion:** Notification S.O. 517(E) represents a specific amendment to the National Highways Act, 1956, adding a new highway segment in Andhra Pradesh to the national highway network. This amendment is significant as it formally integrates this route into the national transportation infrastructure, potentially leading to improvements in connectivity, economic development, and road safety in the region. Further research beyond the provided text would be needed to fully assess the long-term impact of this change.

Key Entities Referenced