Jurisdiction over highways

(1) The jurisdiction for the exercise of powers and functions in respect of the construction, maintenance, repairs and all other works of a similar nature contained in this Act shall, in 10 respect of all highways, be vested in the Minister and the Chief Engineer irrespective of whether any part of any highway falls within the limits of a City, a Town, a Village or any other local authority. (2) For the purpose of discharging the functions specified above, the Minister and the Chief Engineer shall have power to regulate the traffic, including the power to divert, prohibit or otherwise control traffic on the highway irrespective of whether the affected portion of highway passes through a City, Town, Village or other built up area. (3) The jurisdiction conferred on the Minister and the Chief Engineer under subsections (1) and (2) of this section shall, in respect of any part of a highway which falls within the limits of a City, a Town, a Village or any other local authority, be exercised by them after consultation with the local authority concerned, as the case may be. (4) The Chief Engineer shall be responsible for the maintenance of all highways and shall comply with any directions given to him by the Minister. (5) No local or municipal authority or other body shall carry out any works on a highway without the permission in writing of the Chief Engineer. Schedule. (6) The Minister may from time to time by Order published in the Gazette amend the Schedule. Powers over Adjacent Land when Executing Road Works