Centre releases guidelines for signages on expressways and National highways

In a major development, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has issued new guidelines for the provision of signages on Expressways and National Highways across the country. The new guidelines aim at improving road safety as several best practices and world standards have been incorporated to offer improved visibility and intuitive guidance to the drivers.

As road signages are essential components of road infrastructure, the MoRTH has reviewed the provision of signages as per relevant IRC codes and guidelines, existing practices prescribed in various international codes as well as information and functionality perspective to ensure better compliance of traffic regulations, reported PIB.

Salient features of the guidelines

Pictorial Depictions for Intuitive Communication: Pictorial representations along with text to convey essential messages effectively, thus catering to a diverse group of road users, including those with limited literacy.

Regional Languages: Endorse a multilingual approach on road signages, encompassing both English and regional languages, ensuring effective communication with diverse road users, promoting better understanding and adherence to traffic regulations.

Focused Lane Discipline: Special attention has been given to promoting better lane discipline, through strategic positioning with clear and intuitive guidance to drivers, encouraging adherence to designated lanes and minimizing traffic congestion.

Enhanced Visibility and Legibility: Prioritise enhanced visibility of road signages through placement at appropriate height/ distance, large lettering, symbols and short legends for quick comprehension of drivers, ensuring crucial information is readily visible and understandable, even in adverse conditions.