NHIDCL engages IIT Guwahati to investigate vulnerable stretches on Shillong-Dawki highway, install safety signage, barricades, and procure ambulance as Meghalaya High Court monitors road safety measures.
NHIDCL Engages IIT Guwahati for Detailed Highway Investigation
The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has decided to engage IIT Guwahati to conduct a detailed investigation and recommend appropriate road widening options at vulnerable locations along the Shillong-Dawki highway, the High Court of Meghalaya was informed on Wednesday. A report submitted by the NHIDCL through Deputy Solicitor General of India, N. Mozika, stated that the decision followed recommendations made by hill road expert Ashish D. Gharpure.
The NHIDCL informed the court that it sent a letter to IIT Guwahati on May 27, and the institute awaits a response. The NHIDCL placed the report before the division bench of Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice W. Diengdoh. Diengdoh pursuant to the court’s directions issued on May 18 regarding road safety measures on the highway. This engagement demonstrates the corporation’s commitment to addressing safety concerns through expert technical analysis.
Road Safety Signage Installation Follows IRC-67 Guidelines
Regarding road safety signage, the NHIDCL informed the court that the contractor has installed road safety signs in construction zones according to the IRC-67 guidelines. The contractor is also installing additional road signs, retro-reflective tapes, and delineators where required. The NHIDCL said photographs and further details will be submitted on the next date of hearing.
The report also stated that the NHIDCL directed the contractor to install strong physical barricades equipped with reflectors and reflective tapes at vulnerable locations. The contractor has informed the NHIDCL that it procured metal beam crash barriers and will install them shortly. These safety measures aim to prevent accidents and protect motorists traveling through dangerous stretches of the highway.
Contractor Clears Landslide Debris and Restores Traffic Conditions
On road maintenance, the NHIDCL stated that the contractor is regularly clearing landslide debris and slush from road surfaces and providing granular sub-base material to restore safe traffic conditions despite recurring landslides in the area. The Shillong-Dawki highway faces frequent landslides due to its mountainous terrain and heavy rainfall, making continuous maintenance essential for safe transportation.
Concerning traffic management, the NHIDCL informed the court that the contractor has been directed to deploy trained flagmen with communication devices and high-visibility gear at active construction sites to regulate traffic. These flagmen ensure smooth traffic flow while construction activities proceed, minimizing delays and preventing accidents at work zones.
Court Directs NHIDCL to Provide Ambulance Within Four Weeks
The court also reviewed the issue of ambulance deployment along the project stretch. The NHIDCL informed the court that it requested the state government to allocate one of the 10 ambulances handed over by the NHIDCL in July 2021. The corporation further stated that if no ambulance is made available, it will procure a new ambulance and hand it over to the district administration for deployment at the site.
The court observed that it would be advisable for the NHIDCL to provide a new ambulance within four weeks. This directive ensures emergency medical services remain available for accident victims and travelers requiring urgent medical attention along the highway.
Court Seeks Information on School Relocation and Vehicle Traffic Data
The court also sought information regarding students affected by the relocation of a school at Mawlieh village and directed an NHIDCL officer to visit the school and submit a report. The officer must assess how the relocation impacts students’ access to education and recommend measures to minimize disruption to their schooling.
The court listed the matter for further hearing on June 24. The court also directed the NHIDCL to provide data on the approximate number of vehicles passing through the area daily and the purpose of their movement. This traffic data will help the court understand the highway’s usage patterns and assess the necessity of proposed widening and safety improvements.
IIT Guwahati’s Expert Analysis Will Guide Road Widening Decisions
IIT Guwahati’s engagement brings technical expertise to the highway safety initiative. The institute’s civil engineering department will conduct detailed geological surveys, traffic analysis, and structural assessments to recommend appropriate widening options. His recommendations will form the basis for future construction work on vulnerable stretches.
The High Court’s active monitoring demonstrates the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring road safety on critical transportation routes. By directing NHIDCL to engage expert institutions, install safety measures, and provide emergency services, the court ensures that infrastructure development prioritizes public safety alongside construction progress.
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