With the launch of web portal for online approval of movement of Over Dimensional (OD) and Over Weight Cargo (OWC) on Tuesday, Government hopes to stub corruption and bring in transparency in movement of heavyweight cargo.
“This launch of online portal has removed one of the biggest hurdles on the way of ‘Make In India’ campaign. It will end corruption by ending bribery. It will save time and money by offering an opportunity to save time and avoid transit delays in movement of equipment of national importance by Modular Hydraulic Axle Trailers,” said Nitin Gadkari, Minister for roads, transport and highways (MoRTH).
“The Modi Government is taking concrete steps towards ease of doing business while creating a level playing field for all and eliminating corruption. Delays in movement of power equipment can have national ramifications. Rapid industrialisation is needed in India for creating new employment opportunities and overall prosperity,” Piyush Goyal, Minister of State for New & Renewable Energy, Power and Coal
Apart from this massive digitalisation initiative, the Government has ensured installation of electronic tolling systems across 108 toll plazas in the country. “By March, 350 toll plazas will not only be converted into electronic toll booths but would be fitted with electronic weighing machines,” said Gadkari, adding that the initiative would result in savings to the tune of over Rs70,000 crore per annum on account of fuel consumption and delays at toll plazas.
Earlier, he said the Government’s emphasis was to promote waterways across the nation as India still lagged in utilising its waterways in comparison to countries like China which transported 44 per cent of its cargo through the mode in comparison to barely 3.3 per cent here.
“Government is committed to develop four waterways at present, including Varanasi-Haldia, where work would begin in next two months besides Paradip, Delhi-Agra and Brahmaputra stretch,” he added.