Answer the following questions in not more than 150 words.

Describe the role of roads in the economic development of India.

Roadways are often described as economic arteries of India. With the second largest road network in the world with a total length of 54.8 lakh km (5.48 million km), Indian roadways transports 85% of passengers and 70% of freight every year. The roads, thus, plays a vital role in commerce. For instance, without road transport, manufacturers would not have products and components, consumers would not receive goods, and businesses would not be able to trade internationally. Roads, therefore, offer a safe, seamless and secure way to transport goods around the country.

National Highways are constructed and maintained by the Central Government. Meant for inter-state transport of goods and movement of defence men and material in strategic areas, these are the most important roadways in terms of economic value. Other significant roadways include State highways, District Roads and Rural roads, which spreads to the remote regions of the country. The crucial roadways in the border regions of the north and northeast are maintained by the Border Roads Organisation. International highways passing through India are meant to promote the harmonious relationship with the neighbouring countries by providing effective links with India.