Assam: MoRTH Stresses Proper Provision of Signage on National Highways

Staff Reporter

Guwahati: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has noted certain discrepancies in the provision of signage on Expressways and National Highways across the country. MoRTH has now written to the Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories (including Assam), Chief Engineers of PWD in all states, the Director General of Border Roads, the Chairman of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the Managing Director of NHIDCL, etc.

The communiqué from MoRTH dated December 24, 2024, has asked the recipients to ensure that guidelines for signage are followed strictly. It was also mentioned that the circular will come into effect after 30 days from the date of its issue. Also that the circular will be applicable for all projects prospectively.

According to the general guidelines for the provision of signage on Expressways, signs should be used to provide guidance, warnings, notice, and regulatory information to road users in well-designed formats for ensuring comfortable, safe, and smooth driving. Signs are also essential where hazards are not self-evident.

The guidelines further said that signs should also provide information on entry/exit directions, destinations, and points of interest. Clear, ample, and effective traffic signage provides adequate reaction time for the driver. Signs are designed so that they are legible to road users approaching them and readable in time to permit proper responses. Desired design characteristics include long visibility distances, large lettering and symbols, and short legends for quick comprehension.

Functionally, road signage is classified as Mandatory/regulatory signs, Cautionary/ Warning signs, and Informative/guide signs.

Mandatory or Regulatory signs are used to impose legal restrictions applicable to particular locations and unenforceable without such signs. These include all signs, such as, Speed Limit, No Entry, etc., which give notice of special obligations, prohibitions, or restrictions for traffic control, which the road users must comply with.  The violation of the rules and regulations conveyed by these signs is a legal offence and shall attract a penalty.

Cautionary/Warning Signs are used to call attention to actual or potentially hazardous conditions so that the users can become cautious and take the desired action. The signs shall be in the shape of an equilateral triangle, with the apex pointing upwards. It shall have a red border and black symbols on a white background, according to the guidelines.

Informatory signs are used to provide directions to motorists, including route designations, destinations, available services, points of interest, and other geographic, recreational, or cultural sites. These also inform drivers of traffic regulations and information on the points necessary for traffic operation.

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