2.3.1. Modern developments

The first World War period and that immediately following it found a rapid growth in motor transport. So need for better roads became a necessity.

After World War I, the use of motor vehicles increased dramatically. This surge in motor transport highlighted the inadequacies of existing roads, leading to a pressing need for improvements in road infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of vehicles.

Imagine a popular theme park that suddenly experiences a huge increase in visitors. The existing paths and roads within the park become congested, making it difficult for guests to navigate. This scenario parallels the situation after World War I, where the rise in motor vehicles created a similar need for more efficient and expanded roadways.

For that, the Government of India appointed a committee called Road Development Committee with Mr. M.R. Jayakar as the chairman. This committee came to be known as Jayakar Committee.

Recognizing the urgent need for improved road systems, the Government of India established the Road Development Committee in response to the challenges identified after World War I. Mr. M.R. Jayakar was appointed as the chairman of this committee, which aimed to strategically address road infrastructure deficiencies.

Think of a school's task force formed in response to overcrowding in classrooms. Just as the task force would assess the situation and suggest plans for new classrooms, the Jayakar Committee was organized to analyze India's road issues and propose solutions.

The committee found that the road development of the country had become beyond the capacity of local governments and suggested that the Central government should take proper charge considering it as a matter of national interest.

The Jayakar Committee recognized that local governments were overwhelmed by the task of improving roads. Their recommendation indicated that this was a national concern and that the Central government should spearhead the initiative to revitalize and expand road development, treating it as a critical part of national infrastructure.

This situation can be compared to a community park that has fallen into disrepair, with local neighborhood volunteers unable to manage it effectively. The community leaders might suggest that the city government take responsibility to restore and maintain the park for everyone’s benefit.

They gave more stress on long-term planning programme, for a period of 20 years (hence called twenty year plan)... This paved the way for the establishment of a semi-official technical body called Indian Road Congress (IRC) in 1934.

The Jayakar Committee emphasized the importance of strategic long-term planning for road development, proposing a 20-year programme to guide future efforts. One significant outcome was the creation of the Indian Road Congress (IRC), which functions as a technical body to facilitate ongoing discussions about road construction and development.

Consider a sports team planning its strategy for upcoming seasons. By having a structured long-term plan, the team can build its roster, improve its training facilities, and set goals for championships. Similarly, the IRC aimed to create a framework for India’s road management and development.

The committee suggested imposition of additional taxation on motor transport which includes duty on motor spirit, vehicle taxation, license fees for vehicles plying for hire. This led to the introduction of a development fund called Central Road Fund in 1929.

To support the ambitious road development plans, the Jayakar Committee recommended the implementation of additional taxes on motor vehicles, which would generate funds specifically for road improvements. This funding mechanism culminated in the establishment of the Central Road Fund in 1929, dedicated to enhancing road infrastructure.

This process is akin to a school initiating a fundraising campaign by asking families to contribute a small amount each month. The collected funds would then be used specifically for upgrading school facilities, similar to how taxes would support road enhancements.

A dedicated research organization should be constituted to carry out research and development work. This resulted in the formation of Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) in 1950.

The committee recognized the necessity for ongoing research and development to inform and guide road improvement efforts. This need led to the creation of the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) in 1950, dedicated to studying road systems and innovating techniques for roadway construction and maintenance.

Imagine a university establishing a dedicated lab for research in renewable energy. Just as that lab would pursue new technologies and best practices to improve energy efficiency, the CRRI focused on enhancing road safety and infrastructure through research.

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