16 July 2026

Public consultation guidelines for highway projects

These new guidelines represent a significant policy shift in infrastructure governance, directly addressing transparency and stakeholder participation in major national highway projects.

Questions

1. Discuss the significance of institutionalizing public consultation mechanisms in infrastructure development projects. How does this approach enhance the transparency and social acceptability of highway construction in India? 150 words
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2. The effectiveness of large-scale infrastructure projects depends not only on technical execution but also on robust oversight and grievance redressal mechanisms. In the context of recent regulatory changes in the highway sector, analyze the role of parliamentary oversight in ensuring accountability and service standards in public works. 250 words
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Prelims

1. According to the new guidelines for highway projects, which of the following stakeholders must be consulted for greenfield projects in addition to those required for brownfield projects?

   1. A District Magistrate and State PWD
   2. B NHAI regional officers and contractors
   3. C Local MLA and MP
   4. D Village Sarpanch and Mayor

2. What is the threshold for sub-contractors to mandatorily register with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) as per the latest directives?

   1. A 8% or more of the total project cost
   2. B 15% or more of the total project cost
   3. C 5% or more of the total project cost
   4. D 10% or more of the total project cost