The ministry responsible for the development of surface transport throughout the country, particularly in India, is the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). This ministry is the apex body for formulating and administering rules, regulations, and laws related to road transport, transport research, and enhancing the mobility and efficiency of the road transport system in India. It oversees the planning, development, and maintenance of National Highways and supports state governments for the development of state roads and roads of inter-state connectivity and national importance
. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has several wings, including the Roads Wing, which is the backbone of the country's road network development program. The Roads Wing is responsible for the construction, maintenance, and operation of National Highways, setting standards for roads and bridges, and managing various centrally sponsored schemes related to roads
. In other countries, surface transport development may be managed by different agencies or ministries. For example, in the United States, the Department of Transportation and its subcommittees handle national surface transportation policy, including highways and transit
. Thus, the ministry that looks after the development of surface transport throughout a country depends on the country, but in India, it is the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
