P and M File in the State Bihar

## Policy Analysis Report: Entrusting of National Highway Stretches to the National Highways Authority of India **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification (S.O. 4352(E)) issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on September 16, 2022. The notification, made under Section 11 of the National Highways Authority of India Act, 1988, entrusts specific stretches of National Highways in the state of Bihar to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Key findings indicate that the NHAI will be responsible for the specified sections of NH119A and NH119D, excluding a specific 19km portion of NH119D. This transfer of authority is intended to improve the management and development of these crucial highway sections. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide a detailed overview of the notification S.O. 4352(E), dated September 16, 2022, regarding the entrustment of specific stretches of National Highways to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The analysis is based solely on the provided text of the notification. **3. Policy Overview:** This is a new policy decision regarding the entrustment of National Highways. * **Core Objective(s):** The primary objective, inferred from the text, is to transfer responsibility for the management, maintenance, and development of the specified National Highway stretches to the NHAI. This is likely to streamline operations and potentially lead to improvements in infrastructure and connectivity along these routes. **4. Background and Rationale:** The policy addresses the need for efficient management and development of National Highways. By entrusting these sections to the NHAI, the Central Government aims to leverage the NHAI's expertise and resources to improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of these highway sections. The act of entrusting the highways to a specific authority indicates a desire for focused development and accountability. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** * The Central Government, exercising powers conferred by Section 11 of the National Highways Authority of India Act, 1988, entrusts the specified stretches of National Highways to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). * **NH119A:** The entire NH119A within the state of Bihar, from its junction with NH19 near Sasaram, connecting Garhani, Patar Arrah and terminating at its junction with NH131G near Sadisopur Patna, including the spur starting near Patar Arrah and terminating at its junction with NH319 near Asni Arrah, is entrusted to the NHAI. * **NH119D:** The entire NH119D within the state of Bihar, excluding the 19km section from Kachhi Dargah to Kalyanpur, from its junction with NH19 near Amas connecting Ramnagar, Kachhi Dargah and Kalyanpur Hajipur, Tajpur and terminating at its junction with NH27 near Bela Nawada Darbhanga, is entrusted to the NHAI. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary stakeholders directly affected by this policy are: * **The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI):** The NHAI assumes responsibility for the management, maintenance, and development of the specified highway stretches. * **Commuters and Businesses utilizing NH119A and NH119D:** Improvements in highway conditions and efficiency will directly impact travel times and transportation costs. * **Residents of Bihar:** Enhanced connectivity and infrastructure development will benefit the local economy and improve quality of life. * **Contractors and Service Providers:** Opportunities for infrastructure development and maintenance projects will arise. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency:** The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is the primary responsible agency. * **Timelines/Procedures:** The notification itself does not specify exact timelines or procedures for the transfer of authority. It is likely that internal procedures within the NHAI and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways will govern the transition. The immediate next step is likely a formal transfer of documentation and assets to the NHAI. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcomes of this policy include: * Improved management and maintenance of NH119A and NH119D (excluding the specified 19km section). * Enhanced efficiency and safety of transportation along these routes. * Accelerated infrastructure development and upgrades on these highways. * Streamlined decision-making and project implementation due to the NHAI's focused responsibility. * Positive impact on regional economic growth and connectivity within Bihar. **9. Conclusion:** The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways' notification S.O. 4352(E) represents a significant step towards improving the management and development of critical National Highway sections in Bihar. By entrusting these stretches to the NHAI, the Central Government aims to leverage the agency's expertise and resources to enhance infrastructure, improve transportation efficiency, and stimulate economic growth in the region. The policy signifies a commitment to strategic infrastructure development and focused management of key transportation arteries.

Key Entities Referenced