Transportation Networks — Policy Reforms

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
Major Port Authorities Act, 2021	2021	Replaced the Major Port Trusts Act, 1963. This act aims to provide more autonomy and flexibility to the 12 major ports in India. It allows for greater decentralization in decision-making and empowers port authorities to fix tariffs, utilize land, and manage their operations more efficiently.	Significantly enhances the operational efficiency and competitiveness of major ports, attracting private investment and promoting port-led development under the Sagarmala Programme. It moves towards a landlord port model, separating regulatory and operational functions.
Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019	2019	Amended the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, to improve road safety, streamline vehicle registration, and enhance penalties for traffic violations. It introduced provisions for recall of defective vehicles, protection of good samaritans, and a national transport policy.	Aims to drastically reduce road accidents and fatalities, improve the regulatory framework for motor vehicles, and promote safer driving practices. It also introduces a framework for app-based taxi aggregators and addresses issues of third-party insurance.
National Highways Authority of India (Amendment) Act, 2013	2013	Amended the NHAI Act, 1988, to allow NHAI to raise funds through various instruments, including infrastructure bonds, and to engage in public-private partnerships more effectively. It also streamlined land acquisition processes.	Provided greater financial autonomy and flexibility to NHAI, enabling faster execution of highway projects. It facilitated increased private sector participation in highway development, crucial for meeting ambitious targets like those under Bharatmala Pariyojana.