New Delhi: A parliamentary report has flagged concerns over slow progress in key areas such as port connectivity projects under Bharatmala, the inability to effectively utilise research and development funds, and the reactive nature of maintenance budgeting of highways.
The report highlighted that while overall budget utilisation might suggest good absorption of funds, there is a wide variation across verticals.
The committee recommended adopting specific, measurable annual targets to reduce road crashes and fatalities under the outcome budget framework.
It also suggested expediting notification of comprehensive national standards for safety and operations in the ropeway sector and a vendor development programme to boost domestic manufacturing.
The report noted that the ministry continues to rely on incremental precedents rather than scientific assessment of asset deterioration, resulting in disruptions to systematic repair cycles.
It recommended a shift to a "zero-based maintenance budgeting" framework, under which annual projections would be based on empirical data from Network Survey Vehicles.
The committee also suggested setting up a standing R&D facilitation cell to improve uptake and promote cost-effective technologies.
It recommended the creation of a joint port connectivity mission with the ministry of ports, shipping and waterways to expedite coastal regulation zone clearances.
The committee suggested exploring a monetisation reserve fund to cushion capital expenditure against market volatility.
