Date:23/05/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/05/23/stories/2006052300710700.htm

Back NHAI projects: Panel to suggest dispute resolution mechanism

Our Bureau

Bid to speed up implementation

New Delhi , May 22

The Government has decided to set up a committee to review dispute resolution mechanism for the National Highway Authority of India's (NHAI) development projects.

The committee will suggest effective mechanism and submit its report within a month.

The committee, to be chaired by Mr L.K. Joshi, Secretary, Department of Road Transport and Highways, will have representatives of various Ministries, technical and management experts, consultants and contractors.

This was announced by the Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways, Mr T.R. Baalu here, said an official release.

Mr Baalu said that the Ministry is also considering setting up an alternative dispute resolution forum constituting of legal technical and management experts.

Parties concerned can approach the proposed independent forum to sort out issues and resolve the dispute out of the court.

He expressed hope that these steps would help in speedy implementation of NHAI development projects.

Addressing all stakeholders in NHAI projects including officials of various Ministries, consultants, contractors, Mr Baalu expressed concern over the delay in some of the National Highway Development Programme projects due to various disputes.

He said that all possible steps should be taken to expedite road projects.