India has one of the largest road networks in the world with a total length of about 62.16 lakh km. About 85 per cent of passenger and 70 per cent of freight traffic are carried by roads every year. Road transport is relatively suitable for shorter-distance travel.  Road transport in the modern sense was very limited in India before World War II. The first serious attempt was made in 1943 when the ‘Nagpur Plan’ was drawn. This plan could not be implemented due to a lack of coordination between the princely states and British India.

Which roads are included in the category 'other roads' in India?

Border Roads and International Highways

Other roads include Border Roads and International Highways. The Border Road Organisation (BRO) was established in May 1960 to accelerate economic development and strengthen defence preparedness through the rapid and coordinated improvement of strategically important roads along the northern and northeastern boundaries of the country. It is a premier multifaceted construction agency. It has constructed roads in high altitude mountainous terrain joining Chandigarh with Manali (Himachal Pradesh) and Leh (Ladakh). This road runs at an average altitude of 4,270 metres above the mean sea level. Apart from the construction and maintenance of roads in strategically sensitive areas, the BRO also undertakes snow clearance in high-altitude areas. The international highways are meant to promote a harmonious relationship with the neighbouring countries by providing effective links with India.