Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh govt has notified comprehensive guidelines for the design, construction and certification of jeepable and ambulance link roads, introducing the country’s first scientific framework for such roads.Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the initiative would strengthen last-mile connectivity, improve road safety and support inclusive development by enhancing access to emergency services, markets, tourism and economic opportunities across the state.The move aims to ensure safer and better connectivity to remote villages by improving access to healthcare, education and essential services. The guidelines prescribe standards for road width, pavement quality, drainage systems, retaining walls, slope protection, road safety measures and maintenance. Earlier, many jeepable roads were built without uniform engineering norms, resulting in safety concerns and maintenance difficulties.The new system will allow inspection of existing roads, upgrading where needed and certification after meeting safety standards. Certified roads can also be brought under regular government maintenance.
