Power of the Government to enter into agreement for development and maintenance of Highways and bridges.

(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act or any other Act for the time being in force, the Government may enter into an agreement with any person in relation to the construction, development and maintenance of the whole or any part of the Highway or a bridge. (2) To facilitate or secure such construction, development and maintenance, the agreement may, subject to such terms and conditions as may be prescribed, provide for the transfer of any land belonging to or to be acquired by the Government under this Act or any other Act, for the time being in force, to such person or persons by way of lease or otherwise during the period of such agreement. (3) Notwithstanding anything contained in sections 54A and 54B and rules framed thereunder the person referred to in sub-section (1) shall be entitled to collect and retain fee at such rate or rates, for the service or benefits rendered by him as the Government may by notification in the Official Gazette specify having regard to the expenditure involved for acquisition of land and construction, development and maintenance of bridges or Highway. (4) A person referred to in sub-section (1) shall have powers to regulate and control the traffic in accordance with the provisions contained in Chapter VIII of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (Central Act 59 of 1988) on the Highway or a bridge forming subject matter of such agreement, for proper management thereof.