Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government is set to revolutionize road maintenance by implementing a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for state highways, aiming to ensure smooth vehicular movement and better upkeep. Inspired by the successful maintenance of national highways, where a monopolist oversees road conditions and repairs, the state now plans to extend the same system to Roads and Buildings (R&B) department-managed highways.
Under this initiative, 18 state highways covering 1,307 km have been shortlisted for the first phase, while 68 more roads spanning 3,931 km will be included in the second phase. The roads selected are high-traffic corridors where timely maintenance is critical.
The PPP system eliminates delays caused by waiting for government funds to repair potholes or renew roads every five years. Instead, the monopolist will handle regular maintenance and renewal. Consulting firms have been commissioned to conduct feasibility studies on these roads, analyzing traffic volumes, projected growth, toll collection potential (excluding bikes, autos, and tractors), and the viability gap funding required from the government.
This move is expected to streamline road management and provide commuters with pothole-free highways year-round, ensuring improved infrastructure across Andhra Pradesh.
