Section 180: Diversion of traffic

180. Diversion of traffic (1) Subject to this section, where the Minister is satisfied that traffic on a road, the maintenance of which he is responsible for, should, by reason of works of repair or construction being required or being in progress on or near that road, be diverted onto any other road, he may, by regulations— (a) prohibit or restrict the use of that road in such manner as may be specified; and (b) direct that such traffic as may be affected by the prohibition or restriction use other existing roads. (2) Where regulations made under subsection (1) are in force, a notice— (a) stating the effect of the regulations; and (b) describing the alternative route available for traffic, shall be kept posted in a conspicuous manner at each end of the part of the road to which the regulations relate and at the points at which it is necessary for vehicles to diverge from the road, and the diversion route shall be clearly indicated to traffic using it by means of suitable signs. (3) In addition to the powers conferred on him by subsection (1), the Minister may, by means of suitable barriers, close or restrict the use of a road, the maintenance of which he is responsible for, for the purposes of repair or reconstruction provided that— (a) where possible, a diversion for the passage of traffic is provided; and (b) adequate traffic signs are displayed in accordance with section 185 (2), giving reasonable warning to traffic using the road at the closure or restriction. (4) Any person who— (a) uses; or (b) causes or permits the use of, an animal or vehicle in contravention of any regulations made by the Minister under this section shall commit an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 200 rupees.