MoRTH Mulls Doubling Defect-Liability Period for Road Contracts

Traditionally, under EPC contracts, the central government assumes responsibility for national highway maintenance after the defect-liability period. With the proposed extension, contractors would be accountable for maintenance for an extended duration, fostering better road upkeep.
The ministry has allocated ₹2,600 crore for road maintenance in 2024-25, aligning with previous years' expenditures. Funded by the Central Road Infrastructure Fund, maintenance operations are carried out by various agencies including state public works departments, the Border Roads Organisation, and the National Highways Authority of India.