Section 16. Development and operation of highways

The State Government shall develop and operate all state highways; provided, however, that it may, by notification in the Official Gazette, direct that any function in relation to the development and operation of any highway shall, subject to such conditions, if any, as may be specified in the notification, also be exercisable by the Authority or by any officer or authority subordinate to the State Government or to the Authority, in accordance with such rules as the State Government may prescribe. (2) The State Government may regulate the operation of highways by rules to be made for and in respect of - (a) upkeep and inspection of highways; (b) safety of users; (c) road safety standards and procedures; (d) the manner of preventing obstructions on highways; (e) the manner of prohibiting the parking or waiting of vehicles on highways, except at places earmarked for this purpose; (f) the manner of prohibiting or restricting access to any part of the highways; (g) the manner of regulating or restricting advertisements on and around highways; and (h) generally for the efficient and proper operation of highways.