Department of Road Transport & Highways

An apex organisation under the Central Government, is entrusted with the task of formulating and administering, in consultation with other Central Ministries/Departments, State Governments/UT Administrations, organisations and individuals, policies for Road Transport, National Highways and Transport Research with a view to increasing the mobility and efficiency of the road transport system in the country.

The Department has two wings: Roads wing and Transport wing Roads wing Ø Deals with development and maintenance of National Highway in the country. Main responsibilities: The Department is responsible for: Planning, development and maintenance of National Highways in the country. Extends technical and financial support to State Governments for the development of state roads and the roads of inter-state connectivity and economic importance. Evolves standard specifications for roads and bridges in the country. Serves as a repository of technical knowledge on roads and bridges. Transport wing Ø Deals with matter relating to Road Transport. Main responsibilities: The Department is responsible for: Motor Vehicle legislation, Administration of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 Taxation of motor vehicles, Compulsory insurance of motor vehicles, Administration of the Road Transport Corporations Act, 1950, And promotion of Transport co-operatives in the field of motor transport. Evolves road safety standards in the form of a National Policy on Road Safety and by preparing and implementing the Annual Road Safety Plan. Collects, compiles and analyses road accident statistics and takes steps for developing a Road Safety Culture in the country by involving the members of public and organising various awareness campaigns. Provides grants-in-aid to Non-Governmental Organisations in accordance with the laid down guidelines.